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CARLISLE 

HATIMEWS,    NORTHUl'P  8t    CO.,  AflT-Pflll)T|H8   WOPIfS,  BUFFALO,    U.   Y. 


THE  1/  ^  ^  2- 


LAY  OF  THE  LAST  MINSTREL. 

STATE  NORMAL  SCHOOL, 


^  J^ocm,  in  %\i  Cantos* 


BY 

SIR  WALTER  SCOTT. 


EDITED  BY 

MARGARET   ANDREWS   ALLEN. 


BOSTON,  U.S.A.: 
PUBLISHED   BY   GIXN  AND   COMPANY. 

1889. 


Entered  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1887,  by 

MARGARET  ANDREWS  ALLEN, 
in  the  Office  of  the  Librarian  of  Congress,  at  Washington. 


Electuotyped  by  J.  8.  Cusuing  &  Co.,  Boston. 


1     ■  n 


EDITOR'S   PREFACE. 


rpHE  text  of  the  poem  has  been  carefully  compared 
with  various  editions  of  the  "  Lay  of  the  Last  Min- 
strel," the  earliest  used  being  that  of  1813.  The  notes 
are  chiefly  abridged  from  Scott's  own,  merely  using 
such  as  are  necessary  to  enable  the  reader  to  enjoy  the 
poem  understandingly,  and  are  nol  intended  for  critical 
study. 

The  map  gives  the  principal  localities  mentioned  in 
the  poem,  with  their  relation  to  the  more  important 
cities,  such  as  Edinburgh  and  Carlisle,  and  the  adjacent 
counties  of  England. 


TO 
THE  RIGHT  HON^ORABLE 

CHARLES,   EARL  OF   DALKEITH, 

IS   INSCRIBED    BY    THE   AUTHOR. 


The  Poem  now  offered  to  the  public  is  intended  to  ilhistrate  the  customs 
and  manners  which  anciently  prevailed  on  the  Borders  of  England  and 
Scotland.  The  inhabitants,  living  in  a  state  partly  pastoral  and  partly  wai-- 
like,  and  combining  habits  of  constant  depredation  with  the  intluence  of  a 
rude  spirit  of  chivalry,  were  often  engaged  in  scenes  highly  susceptible  of 
poetical  ornament.  As  the  description  of  scenery  and  manners  was  more 
the  object  of  the  Author  than  a  combined  and  regular  narrative,  the  plan 
of  the  ancient  metrical  romance  was  adopted,  which  allows  greater  latitude 
in  this  respect  than  would  be  consistent  with  the  dignity  of  a  regular  poem. 
The  same  model  offered  other  facilities,  as  it  permits  an  occasional  altera- 
tion of  measure,  which,  in  some  degree,  authorizes  the  changes  of  rhythm 
in  the  text.  The  machinery  also,  adopted  from  popular  belief,  would  have 
seemed  puerile  in  a  Poem  which  did  not  partake  of  the  rudeness  of  the  old 
Ballad,  or  Metrical  Romance. 

For  these  reasons,  the  Poem  was  put  into  the  mouth  of  an  ancient  Min- 
strel, the  last  of  the  race,  who,  as  he  is  supposed  to  luive  survived  the  Revo- 
lution, might  have  caught  somewhat  of  the  refinement  of  modern  poetry, 
without  losing  the  simplicity  of  his  original  model.  The  date  of  the  tale 
itself  is  about  the  middle  of  the  sixteentli  century,  when  most  of  the  per- 
sonages actually  tiourished.  The  time  occupied  by  the  action  is  three  nights 
and  three  days. 


mTEODUCTIO^. 


The  way  was  long,  the  wind  was  cold, 

The  Minstrel  was  infirm  and  old  ; 

His  withered  cheek,  and  tresses  gra}^ 

Seemed  to  have  known  a  better  day  ; 

The  harp,  his  sole  remaining  joy,  5 

Was  carried  by  an  orphan  boy. 

The  last  of  all  the  bards  was  he. 

Who  sung  of  Border  chivalry ; 

For,  well-a-day !  their  date  was  fled, 

His  tuneful  brethren  all  were  dead ;  10 

And  he,  neglected  and  oppressed. 

Wished  to  be  with  them,  and  at  rest. 

No  more,  on  prancing  palfrey  borne, 

He  carolled,  light  as  lark  at  morn ; 

No  longer  courted  and  caressed,  15 

High  placed  in  hall,  a  welcome  guest. 

He  poured,  to  lord  and  lady  gay. 

The  unpremeditated  lay : 

Old  times  were  changed,  old  manners  gone, 

A  stranger  filled  the  Stuart's  throne  ;  20 

The  bigots  of  tlie  iron  time 

Had  called  his  harmless  art  a  crime. 

A  wandering  harper,  scorned  and  poor, 

He  begged  his  bread  from  door  to  door ; 


8  INTRODUCTION. 

And  tuned,  to  please  a  peasant's  ear,  25 

Tlie  harp,  a  king  had  loved  to  hear. 

He  passed  where  Newark's  stately  tower 
Looks  out  from  Yarrow's  birchen  bower : 
The  Minstrel  gazed  with  wishful  eye  — . 
No  humbler  resting-place  was  nigh;  30 

With  hesitating  step,  at  last, 
The  embattled  portal-arch  he  passed, 
Whose  ponderous  grate,  and  massy  bar, 
Had  oft  rolled  back  the  tide  of  war. 
But  never  closed  the  iron  door  35 

Against  the  desolate  and  poor. 
The  Duchess  marked  his  weary  ])ace, 
His  timid  mien,  and  reverend  face, 
And  bade  her  page  the  menials  tell, 
That  they  should  tend  the  old  man  well :  40 

For  she  had  known  adversity. 
Though  born  in  such  a  high  degree  ; 
In  pride  of  power,  in  beauty's  bloom. 
Had  wept  o'er  Monmouth's  bloody  tomb. 

When  kindness  had  his  wants  supplied,  45 

And  the  old  man  was  gratified. 
Began  to  rise  his  minstrel  pride ; 
And  he  began  to  talk,  anon. 
Of  good  Earl  Francis,  dead  and  gone, 

I 

37.  Duchess.  Anna,  Duchess  of  Buccleuch  and  Monmouth,  represen- 
tative of  the  ancient  lords  of  Buccleuch  and  widow  of  James,  Duke  of 
Monmouth,  who  was  beheaded  in  1()85. 

49.  Earl  Francis.  Francis  Scott,  Earl  of  Buccleuch,  father  of  the 
Duchess. 


INTRODUCTION.  9 

And  of  Earl  Walter,  rest  him  God  !  60 

A  braver  ne'er  to  battle  rode ; 

And  how  full  many  a  tale  he  knew, 

Of  the  old  warriors  of  Buccleuch  : 

And,  would  the  noble  Duchess  deign 

To  listen  to  an  oldjiian's  strain,  55 

Though  stiff  his  hand,  his  voice  though  weak, 

He  thought  even  yet,  the  sooth  to  spea^^ 

That,  if  she  loved  the  harp  to  hear. 

He  could  make  music  to  her  ear. 

The  humble  boon  was  soon  obtained ;  go 

The  Aged  jNlinstrel  audience  gained. 
But  when  he  reached  the  room  of  state. 
Where  she,  with  all  lierjadies,  sate, 
Perchance  he  wisheohis  boon  denied. 
For,  when  to  tune  his  harp  he  tried,  65 

His  trembling  hand  had  lost  the  ease 
Which  marks  security  to  please  ; 
And  scenes,  long  past,  of  joy  and  pain. 
Came  wildering  o'er  his  aged  brain  — 
He  tried  to  tune  his  harp  in  vain.  70 

The  pitying  Duchess  praised  its  chime, 
And  gave  him  heart  and  gave  him  time. 
Till  every  string's  according  glee 
Was  blended  into  harmony. 

And  then,  he  said,  he  would  full  fain  75 

He  could  recall  an  ancient  strain, 
He  never  thought  to  sing  again. 
It  was  not  framed  for  village  churls, 
But  for  high  dames  and  mighty  earls ; 

50.  Earl  Walter.   Walter,  Earl  of  Buccleuch,  gramlfather  of  the  Duchess. 


10  INTRODUCTION. 

He  had  played  it  to  King  Charles  the  Good,  so 

Wlien  he  kept  court  at  Holyrood ; 
And  much  he  wished,  yet  feared,  to  try 
The  long-forgotten  melody. 

Amid  the  strings  his  fingers  strayed, 
And  an  uncertain  warbling  made,  85 

And  oft  he  shook  his  hoary  head. 
But  when  he  caught  the  measure  wild, 
The  old  man  raised  his  face,  and  smiled. 
And  lightened  up  his  faded  eyfe. 
With  all  a  poet's  ecstasy  !  go 

In  varying  cadence,  soft  or  strong. 
He  swept  the  sounding  chords  along: 
The  present  scene,  the  future  lot. 
His  toils,  his  wants,  were  all  forgot : 
Cold  diffidence,  and  age's  frost,  95 

In  the  fall  tide  of  song  were  lost ; 
Each  blank,  in  faithless  memory  void. 
The  poet's  glowing  thought  supplied ; 
And  while  his  harp  responsive  rung, 
'Twas  thus  the  Latest  Minstrel  sung.  100 


OUTLINE   OF  CANTO   FIRST. 


This  canto  opens  with  a  description  of  life  in  Branksome  Castle. 
Then  it  tells  of  the  death  of  Branksome's  chief,  Lord  Walter,  who 
was  slain  by  the  Kerrs  in  the  streets  of  Edinburgh,  shortly  before 
the  events  of  the  poem  are  supposed  to  take  place.  His  wife  rules 
in  his  stead,  as  the  Lady  of  Branksome,  and  brings  to  her  aid  the 
spirits  of  earth  and  air. 

AVhile  her  retainers  are  feasting  in  the  great  hall  of  the  castle, 
the  lady  sits  alone  in  "  Lord  David's  western  tower,"  listening  to 
the  mountain  and  river  spirits,  as  they  talk  of  the  fate  of  her  house 
as  decreed  by  the  stars.  She  learns  that  no  good  fortune  will  come 
to  the  house  of  Branksome,  till  she  consents  to  the  niai-riage  of  her 
daughter  Margaret  and  Lord  Cranstoun  of  Teviotdale,  with  whom 
her  clan,  the  Scotts,  have  a  feud. 

Descending  to  the  hall,  where  her  little  boy  is  playing  among 
her  retainers,  she  summons  William  of  Deloraine,  ordering  him  to 
ride  on  his  swiftest  steed  to  Melrose  Abbey,  and  bring  her  the 
book  of  magic  from  INIichael  Scott's  grave.  She  hopes  by  the 
powerful  spells  contained  therein,  to  thwart  the  plans  of  the  spirits 
of  earth  and  air,  and  the  fortune  decreed  by  the  stars. 

The  canto  closes  with  a  spirited  description  of  VV^illiam  of  Delo- 
raine's  night  ride  to  Melrose  Abbey. 


LAY  OF  THE  LAST  MINSTREL. 


Canto  ^ivst. 

I. 

The  feast  was  over  in  Branksome  tower, 

And  the  Ladye  had  gone  to  her  secret  bower ; 

Her  bower,  that  was  guarded  by  word  and  by  spell, 

Deadly  to  hear,  and  deadly  to  tell  — 

Jesu  Maria,  shield  us  well !  6 

No  living  wight,  save  the  Ladye  alone, 

Had  dared  to  cross  the  threshold  stone. 

II. 

The  tables  were  drawn,  it  was  idlesse  all ; 

Knight,  and  page,  and  household  squire, 
Loitered  through  the  lofty  hall,  10 

Or  crowded  round  the  ample  fire. 
The  stag-hounds,  weary  with  the  chase. 

Lay  stretched  upon  the  rushy  floor, 
And  urged,  in  dreams,  the  forest  race, 

From  Teviot-stone  to  Eskdale-raoor.  15 

1.  Branksome  tower.  This  castle  was  situated  on  the  Teviot,  three 
miles  above  Hawick,  and  was  the  principal  seat  of  the  Buccleuch  family. 

1.3.  Rushy  floor.  In  the  sixteenth  century,  floors  were  strewed  with 
rushes  instead  of  covered  with  carpets. 


14  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  ''  nto  i. 

III. 

Nirie-and-twenty  knights  of  fame 

Hung  their  shields  in  Branksome  Hall; 
Nine-and-twenty  squires  of  name 

Brought  them  their  steeds  from  bower  to  stall : 

Nine-and-twenty  yeomen  tall  20 

Waited,  duteous,  on  them  all : 
The}^  were  all  knights  of  mettle  true, 
Kinsmen  to  the  bold  Buccleuch. 

TV. 

Ten  of  them  were  sheathed  in  steel, 

With  belted  sword,  and  spur  on  heel :  .  25 

They  quitted  not  their  harness  bright, 

Neither  by  day,  nor  yet  by  night : 

They  lay  down  to  rest 

With  corslet  laced. 
Pillowed  on  buckler  cold  and  hard ;  30 

They  carved  at  the  meal 

With  gloves  of  steel, 
And  they  drank  the  red  wine  through  the  helmet  barred. 


Ten  squires,  ten  yeomen,  mail-clad  men, 

Waited  the  beck  of  the  warders  ten ;  35 

Thirty  steeds,  both  fleet  and  wight, 

Stood  saddled  in  stable  day  and  night, 

IG.  Knights  of  fame.  The  ancient  harons  of  Buccleuch  retained  in  their 
household,  at  Branksome,  a  number  of  gentlemen  of  their  own  name,  who 
held  lands  from  their  chief  for  the  military  service  of  watching  and  ward- 
ing his  castle. 


CANTO  I,  LAY   OF    THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  15 

Barl^d  with  frontlet  of  steel,  I  trow, 

And  with  Jedwood-axe  at  saddle-bow ; 

A  hundred  more  fed  free  in  stall :  —  40 

Such  was  the  custom  of  Branksome  Hall. 

VI.  — 

Why  do  these  steeds  stand  ready  dight? 

Why  watch  these  warriors,  armed,  by  night? 

They  watch,  to  hear  the  bloodhound  baying; 

They  watch,  to  hear  the  war-horn  braying ;  45 

To  see  St.  George's  red  cross  streaming. 

To  see  the  midnight  beacon  gleaming ; 

They  watch,  against  Southern  force  and  guile, 
Lest\§croop,  or  Howarfl,  or;Percy's  powers, 
'Threaten  Branksome's  lordly  towers,  50 

From  Warkwoith,  or  Naworth,  or  merry  Carlisle. 

VII. 

Such  is  the  custom  of  Branksome  Hall.  — 

Many  a  valiant  knight  is  here ; 
But  he,  the  Chieftain  of  them  all. 
His  sword  hangs  rustling  on  the  wall,  55 

Beside  his  broken  spear. 
Bards  long  shall  tell. 
How  Lord  Walter  fell ! 
When  startled  burghers  fled,  afar, 

39.  Jedwood-axe.     A  sort  of  partizan  or  halbert,  used  by  horsemen. 

42.  Dight.     Caparisoned. 

50.  Threaten  Branksome's  lordly  towers.  Being  a  Border  castle, 
Branksome  was  often  exposed  to  attacks  from  the  English. 

.5S.  Lord  Walter.  A  Scott  of  Buccleuch  and  warden  of  the  west  marches 
of  Scotland.    He  was  killed  by  the  Kerrs  in  the  streets  of  Edinburgh. 


16  LAY   OF  THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  i. 

The  fillies  of  the  Border  war ;  60 

When  the  streets  of  high  Diinedin 
Saw  lances  gleam,  and  falchions  redden, 
And  heard  the  slogan's  deadly  yell  — 
Then  the  Chief  of  Branksome  fell. 

VIII. 

Can  piety  the  discord  heal,  65 

Or  stanch  the  death-feud's  enmity  ? 
Can  Christian  love,  can  patriot  zeal, 

Can  love  of  blessed  charity  ? 
No !  vainly  to  each  holy  shrine. 

In  mutual  pilgrimage,  they  drew;  70 

Implored,  in  vain,  the  grace  divine 

For  chiefs,  their  own  red  falchions  slew;        <» 
While  Cessford  owns  the  rule  of  Car, 

While  Ettrick  boasts  the  line  of  Scott, 
The  slaughtered  chiefs,  the  mortal  jar,  75 

The  havoc  of  the  feudal  war. 

Shall  never,  never  be  forgot ! 

IX. 

In  sorrow,  o'er  Lord  Walter's  bier 

The  warlike  foresters  had  bent ; 
And  many  a  flower,  and  many  a  tear,  80 

Old  Teviot's  maids  and  matrons  lent : 
But  o'er  her  warrior's  bloody  bier 

61.   Dunedin.    Edinlnirsh. 

(vi  Slogan.    War-cry  of  a  Border  clan. 

70.  Mutual  pilgrimage.  To  stanch  the  feud  between  the  Scotts  and 
Kerrs  or  Cars,  also  a  powerful  Border  family.  There  was  a  bond  executed 
in  15U9  between  the  heads  of  the  chins,  binding  themselves  to  perform 
reciprocally  the  four  principal  pilgrimages  of  Scotland,  for  the  benefit  of 
those  of  the  oi)posite  party  who  had  fallen  in  the  quarrel. 


CANTO  I.  LAY  OF  THE  LAST  MINSTREL.  17 

The  Ladye  dropped  nor  flower  nor  tear! 
Vengeance,  deep-brooding  o'er  the  slain, 

Had  locked  the  source  of  softer  woe ;  85 

And  burning  pride,  and  high  disdain, 

Forbade  the  rising  tear  to  Howjj 
Until,  amid  his  sorrowing  clan, 

Her  son  lisped  from  the  nurse's  knee  — 
"And,  if  I  live  to  be  a  man,  90 

My  father's  death  revenged  shall  be ! " 
Then  fast  the  mother's  tears  did  seek 
To  dew  the  infant's  kindling  cheek. 

X. 

All  loose  her  negligent  attire. 

All  loose  her  golden  hair,  95 

Hung  Margaret  o'er  her  sla-ughtered  sire, 

And  wept  in  wild  despair. 
But  not  alone  the  bitter  tear 

Had  filial  grief  supplied ; 
For  hopeless  love,  and  anxious  fear,  lOo 

Had  lent  their  mingled  tide  : 
Nor  in  her  mother's  altered  eye 
Dared  she  to  look  for  sympathy. 
Her  lover,  'gainst  her  father's  clan, 

With  Car  in  arms  had  stood,  105 

When  Mathouse-burn  to  IMeh'ose  ran, 

All  purple  with  their  blood. 
And  well  she  knew,  her  mother  dread. 

Before  Lord  Cranstoun  she  should  wed, 
Would  see  her  on  her  dying  bed.  no 

109.  lord  Cranstoun.    The  Cranstouns  were  an  ancient  Border  family 
of  Teviotdale,  at  this  time  at  feud  with  the  Scotts. 


18  LAY   OF   THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  i. 

XI. 

Of  noble  race  the  Ladye  came ; 
Her  father  was  a  clerk  of  fame, 

Of  Bethune's  line  of  Picardie  : 
He  learned  the  art,  that  none  may  name, 

In  Padua,  far  beyond  the  sea.  ii5 

Men  said,  he  changed  his  mortal  frame 

By  feat  of  magic  mystery  ; 
For  when,  in  studious  mood,  he  paced 

St.  Andrew's  cloistered  hall, 
■  His  form  no  darkening  shadow  traced  120 

Upon  the  sunny  wall ! 

XII. 

And  of  his  skill,  as  bards  avow, 

He  taught  that  Ladye  fair. 
Till  to  her  bidding  she  could  bow 

The  viewless  forms  of  air.  125 

And  now  she  sits  in  secret  bower, 
In  old  Lord  David's  western  tower. 
And  listens  to  a  heavy  sound. 
That  moans  the  mossy  turrets  round. 
Is  it  the  roar  of  Teviot's  tide,  130 

That  chafes  against  the  scaur's  red  side  ? 
Is  it  the  wind  that  swings  the  oaks  ? 

1].^.  Bethune.    A  noble  family  of  French  origin. 

115.  Padua.  A  city  in  Italy,  long  supposed  by  the  French  peasants  to  be 
the  chief  school  of  necromancy. 

120.  No  darkening  shadow.  It  is  supposed  that  students  of  necro- 
mancy must  ran  throush  a  subterranean  hall,  when  the  devil  will  catch  the 
hiiidormost  —  or  his  shadow,  if  he  runs  very  swiftly.  Those  who  have  thus 
lo.st  tlieir  shadows  always  prove  the  best  magicians. 

l.'n.   Scaur.    A  precipitous  bank  of  earth. 


CANTO  I.  LAY    OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  11> 

Is  it  the  echo  from  the  rocks? 

What  may  it  be,  the  heavy  sound 

That  moans  old  Branksome's  turrets  round?        135 

xin. 

At  the  sullen,  moaning  sound, 

The  ban-dogs  bay  and  howl ;   • 
And,  from  the  turrets  round, 

Loud  whoops  the  startled  oavI. 
In  the  hall,  both  squire  and  knight  140 

Swore  that  a  storm  was  near, 
And  looked  forth  to  view  the  night; 

But  the  night  was  still  and  clear ! 

XIV. 

From  the  sound  of  Teviot's  tide, 
'    Chafing  with  the  mountain's  side,  145 

From  the  groan  of  the  wind-swung  oak, 
From  the  sullen  echo  of  the  rock, 
From  the  voice  of  the  coming  storm, 

The  Ladye  knew  it  well ! 
It  was  the  Spirit  of  the  Flood  that  spoke,  150 

And  he  called  on  the  Spirit  of  the  Fell. 

XV.  — 

RIVER   SPIRIT. 

"  Sleepest  thou,  brother  ?  " 

MOUNTAIN   SPIRIT. 


"  Brother,  nay  — 

On  my  hills  the  moonbeams  play 


20  LAY   OF  THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  i. 

From  Craik-cross  to  Skelfhill-pen,  155 

By  every  rill,  iu  every  glen, 

Merry  elves  their  inorrice  pacing. 

To  aerial  minstrelsy, 
Emerald  rings  on  brown  heath  tracing, 

Trip  it  deft  and  merrily.  160 

Up,  and  mark  their  nimble  feet ! 
Up,  and  list  their  music  sweet ! " 

XVI. 
EIVER   SPIRIT. 

"  Tears  of  an  imprisoned  maiden 

Mix  with  my  polluted  stream  : 
Marsfaret  of  Branksome,  sorrow-laden,  165 

Mourns  beneath  the  moon's  pale  beam. 
Tell  me,  thou  who  viewest  the  stars. 
When  shall  cease  these  feudal  jars? 
What  shall  be  the  maiden's  fate  ? 
Who  shall  be  the  maiden's  mate  ?  "  170 

xvn. 

MOUNTAIN   SPIRIT. 

"  Arthur's  slow  wain  his  course  doth  roll, 

In  utter  darkness,  round  the  pole ; 

The  Northern  Bear  lowers  black  and  grim  : 

Orion's  studded  belt  is  dim ; 

Twinkling  faint,  and  distant  far,  175 

Shimmers  through  mist  each  planet  star; 

111  may  I  read  their  high  decree : 
But  no  kind  influence  deign  they  shower 


CANTO  I.  LAY   OF   THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  21 

On  Teviot's  tide,  and  Branksome's  tower. 

Till  pride  be  quelled,  and  love  be  free."  iso 

XVIII. 

The  unearthly  voices  ceast. 

And  the  heavy  sound  was  still; 
It  died  on  the  river's  breast, 

It  died  on  the  side  of  the  hill.  — 
But  round  Lord  David's  tower  185 

The  sound  still  floated  near  ; 
For  it  rung  in  the  Ladye's  bower, 

And  it  rung  in  the  Ladye's  ear. 
She  raised  her  stately  head, 

And  her  heart  throbbed  high  with  pride  :  —     190 
"Your  mountains  shall  bend. 
And  your  streams  ascend, 

Ere  INLargaret  be  our  foeman's  bride  !  " 

XIX. 

The  Ladye  sought  the  lofty  hall. 

Where  many  a  bold  retainer  lay,  195 

And,  with  jocund  din,  among  them  all, 

Her  son  pursued  his  infant  play. 
A  fancied  moss-trooper,  the  boy 

The  truncheon  of  a  spear  bestrode, 
And  round  the  hall,  right  merrily,  200 

In  mimic  foray  rode. 
Even  bearded  knights,  in  arms  grown  old. 

Share  in  his  frolic  gambols  bore. 
Albeit  their  hearts,  of  rugged  mould, 

198.  Moss-trooper.    This  was  the  usual  name  for  a  marauder  upon  the 
Border.    Their  tliieviug  inroads  were  called  forays. 


22  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  i. 

Were  stubborn  as  the  steel  they  wore.  205 

For  the  gray  warriors  prophesied, 

How  the  brave  boy,  in  future  war, 
Should  tame  the  Unicorn's  pride, 

Exalt  the  Crescents  and  the  Star. 

XX. 

The  Ladye  forgot  her  purpose  high,  210 

One  moment,  and  no  more  ; 
One  moment  gazed  with  a  mother's  eye, 

As  she  paused  at  the  arched  door. 
Then,  from  amid  the  armed  train. 
She  called  to  her  William  of  Deloraine.  215 

XXI. 

A  stark  moss-trooping  Scott  was  he, 

|As  e'er  couched  Border  lance  by  knee:> 

Through  Solway  sands,  through  Tarras  moss. 

Blindfold,  he  knew  the  j)aths  to  cross; 

By  wily  turns,  by  desperate  bounds,  220 

Had  baffled  Percy's  best  bloodhounds  ; 

In  Eske,  or  Liddel,  fords  were  none. 

But  he  would  ride  them,  one  by  one; 

Alike  to  him  was  time  or  tide, 

December's  snow,  or  July's  pride :  225 

209.  Unicorn  and  Crescent  and  Star.  The  coat  of  arms  of  the  Kerrs 
contained  three  unicorns'  heads,  while  that  of  the  Scotts  bore  a  star  between 
two  crescents. 

215.  William  of  Deloraine.  A  kinsman  and  vassal  of  the  house  of 
Buccleuch. 

221.  Percy's  best  bloodhounds.  Bloodhounds  were  often  used  both  by 
the  Scotcli  and  Enj;lish  to  i)ursue  marauders  across  the  Border. 

222.  Eske  and  Liddel.    Rivers  of  Scotland  near  the  Border. 


CANTO  I.  LAY   OF   THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  23 

Alike  to  liini  was  tide,  or  time, 

Moonless  midnight,  or  matin  prime : 

Steady  of  heart,  and  .stout  of  hand. 

As  ever  drove  prey  from  Cumberland ;  ^ 

Five  times  outlawed  had  he  been,  230 

By  England's  king  and  Scotland's  queen. 

XXII. 

"  Sir  William  of  Deloraine,  good  at  need, 

Mount  thee  on  the  wightest  steed ; 

Spare  not  to  spur,  nor  stint  to  ride, 

Until  thou  come  to  fair  Tweedside ;  235 

And  in  Melrose's  holy  pile 

Seek  thou  the  Monk  of  St.  Mary's  aisle. 

Greet  the  father  well  from  me  ; 
Say,  that  the  fated  hour  is  come. 

And  to-night  he  shall  watch  with  thee,  240 

To  win  the  treasure  of  the  tomb : 
For  this  will  be  St.  Michael's  night. 
And  though  stars  be  dim  the  moon  is  bright ; 
And  the  cross  of  bloody  red 
Will  point  to  the  grave  of  the  mighty  dead.         245 

XXIII. 

"  What  he  gives  thee,  see  thou  keep ; 
Stay  not  thou  for  food  or  sleep : 
Be  it  scroll,  or  be  it  book. 
Into  it,  knight,  thou  must  not  look ; 

229.  Cumberland.     A  county  of  Enjrlaiul  bordering  on  Scotland. 
2:3(5.  Melrose.    The  finest  abbey  in  Scotland,  now  one  of  the  most  beau- 
tiful ruins  on  the  Tweed. 

245.  Mighty  dead.    Michael  Scott,  a  powerful  magician. 


24  LAY   OF   THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  i. 

If  thou  readest,  thou  art  lorn !  250 

Better  hadst  thou  ne'er  been  born." 

XXIV. 

"  O  swiftly  can  speed  my  dapple-gray  steed, 

Which  drinks  of  the  Teviot  clear; 
Ere  break  of  day,"  the  warrior  'gan  say, 

"  Again  will  I  be  here  :  255 

And  safer  by  none  may  thy  errand  be  done. 

Than,  noble  dame,  by  me  ; 
Letter  nor  line  know  I  never  a  one, 

Were't  my  neck-verse  at  Hairibee." 

XXV. 

Soon  in  his  saddle  sate  he  fast,  200 

And  soon  the  steep  descent  he  past. 

Soon  crossed  the  sounding  barbican, 

And  soon  the  Teviot  side  he  won. 

Eastward  the  wooded  path  he  rode ; 

Green  hazels  o'er  his  basnet  nod :  265 

He  passed  the  Peel  of  (johliland, 

And  crossed  old  Borthwick's  roaring  strand ; 

Dimly  he  viewed  the  Moat-hill's  mound, 

Where  Druid  sliades  still  flitted  round; 

In  Hawick  twinkled  many  a  light ;  270 

Behind  him  soon  they  set  in  night; 

259.  Hairibee.  The  place  of  execution  for  tlie  Border  marauders  at 
Carlisle,  England. 

2{)(J.  Peel.    A  Border  tower. 

2(!S.  Moat-hill  mound.  An  artificial  mount  near  Hawick,  M-liich  was 
probably  used  in  ancient  times  as  an  assembling  place  for  a  national  coun- 
cil of  the  adjacent  tribes. 


CASTO  1.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST  MINSTREL.  25 

And  soon  he  spurred  his  courser  keen 
Beneath  the  tower  of  Hazeldean. 

'      XXVI. 

The  chittering  hoofs  the  watchmen  mark ;  — 

"  Stand,  ho  !  thou  courier  of  the  dark."  275 

"  For  Branksome,  ho  !  "  the  knight  rejoined. 

And  left  the  friendly  tower  behind. 

He  turned  hini  now  from  Teviotside, 
And,  guided  by  the  tinkling  rill, 

Northward  the  .dark  ascent  did  ride,  280 

And  gained  the  moor  at  Horseliehill; 
Broad  on  the  left  before  him  lay, 
For  many  a  mile,  the  Roman^way. 

XXVII. 

A  moment  now,  he  slacked  his  speed, 

A  moment  breathed  his  panting  steed ;  '      285 

Drew  saddle-girth  and  corslet-band. 

And  loosened  in  the  sheath  his  brand. 

On  Minto-crags  the  moonbeams  glint. 

Where  Barnhill  hewed  his  bed  of  flint; 

Who  flung  his  outlawed  limbs  to  rest,  "*         200 

Where  falcons  hang  their  giddy  nest. 

Mid  cliffs,  from  whence  his  eagle  eye 

For  many  a  league  his  prey  could  sjoy  ; 

Cliifs,  doubling,  on  their  echoes  borne, 

273.  Hazeldean.    An  estate  belonging  to  a  family  of  Scotts. 

283.  Koman  way.    An  old  Roman  road  crossing  a  part  of  Roxburghshire. 

287.  Brand.     Sword. 

288.  Minto-crags.  A  group  of  crags  rising  above  the  vale  of  the  Teviot. 
Barnhill  is  said  to  have  been  an  outlaw  who  inhabited  a  tower  at  the  base  of 
these  crags.    A  small  platform  high  among  the  crags  is  called  Baruhill's  bed. 


28  LAY    OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  i 

The  terrors  of  the  robber's  horn  ;  21)5 

Cliffs,  which,  for.  many  a  later  year, 

The  warbling  Doric  reed  shall  hear. 

When  some  sad  swain  shall  teach  the  grove, 

Ambition  is  no  cure  for  love. 

XXVI  ir. 

Unchallenged,  thence  passed  Deloraine  soo 

To  ancient  liiddel's  fair  domain. 

Where  Aill,  from  mountains  freed, 
Down  from  the  lakes  did  raving  come  ; 
Each  wave  was  crested  with  tawny  foam, 

Like  the  mane  of  a  chestnut  steed.  305 

In  vain  !  no  torrent,  deep  or  broad. 
Might  bar  the  bold  moss-trooper's  road. 

xxrx. 

At  the  first  plunge  the  horse  sunk  low. 

And  the  water  broke  o'er  the  saddle-bow; 

Above  the  foaming  tide,  I  ween,  310 

Scarce  half  the  charger's  neck  was  seen ; 

For  he  was  barded  from  counter  to  tail, 

And  the  rider  was  armed  complete  in  mail ; 

Never  heavier  man  and  horse 

Stemmed  a  midnight  torrent's  force.  315 

The  warrior's  very  plume,  I  say. 

Was  daggled  by  the  dashing  spray ; 

Yet,  through  good  heart,  and  our  Ladye's  grace. 

At  length  he  gained  the  landing-place. 

301.  The  family  of  Riddel  or  Ryedale  long  held  a  barony  about  half 
way  between  Branksome  and  Melrose.  ^ 

'M)2.   Aill.     A  small  stream  flowing  into  the  Teviot. 
312.  Barded.    Applied  to  a  horse  accoutered  in  armor. 


CANTO  I.  LAY   OF  THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  27 

XXX. 

Now  Bowden  Moor  the  march-man  won,  320 

And  sternly  shook  his  plumed  head, 

As  glanced  his  eye  o'er  Halidon; 
For  on  his  soul  the  slaughter  red 

Of  that  unhallowed  morn  arose. 

When  first  the  Scott  and  Car  were  foes,  325 

When  royal  James  beheld  the  fray, 

Prize  to  the  victor  of  the  day ; 
•  When  Home  and  Douglas,  in  the  van, 

Bore  down  Buccleuch's  retiring  clan, 
^  Till  gallant  Cessford's  heart-blood  dear         "         330 

Reeked  on  dark  Elliot's  Border  spear. 

XXXI. 

^      In  bitter  mood  he  spurred  fast. 

And  soon  the  hated  heath  was  past ; 

And  far  beneath,  in  lustre  wan, 

Old  Melros'  rose,  and  fair  Tweed  ran :  335 

Like  some  tall  rock,  with  lichens  gray. 

Seemed,  dimly  huge,  the  dark  Abbaye. 

When  Hawick  he  passed,  had  curfew  rung. 

Now  midnight  lauds  were  in  Melrose  sung. 

The  sound,  upon  the  fitful  gale,  340 

In  solemn  wise  did  rise  and  fail, 

320.  March-man.    Borderer. 

322.  Halidon.  The  ancient  seat  of  the  Kerrs  of  Cessford.  A  little  to  the 
northward  is  the  battle-field  on  which  the  Douglases,  assisted  by  the  Kerrs, 
contended  as  to  which  should  have  possession  of  King  James.  Elliot,  a 
retainer  of  Buccleuch,  killed  Cessford,  one  of  the  Kerrs. 

338.  Curfew,    Eight  o'clock  bell. 

339.  Midnight  lauds.    Midnight  service  of  the  Catholic  church. 


28  LAY   OF   THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  t. 

Like  that  wild  liarp,  wliose  magic  tone 
Is  wakened  by  the  winds  alone. 
.    But  when  Melrose  he  reached,  'twas  silence  all ; 
He  meetly  stabled  his  steed  in  stall,  345 

And  sought  the  convent's  lonely  wall. 


Here  paused  the  harp;  and  with  its  swell 

The  Master's  fire  and  courage  fell : 

Dejectedly,  and  low,  he  bowed, 

And,  gazing  timid  on  the  crowd,  350 

He  seemed  to  seek,  in  every  eye, 

If  they  approved  his  minstrelsy  ,* 

And,  diffident  of  present  praise, 

Somewhat  he  spoke  of  former  days, 

And  how  old  age,  and  wandering  long,  355 

Had  done  his  hand  and  harp  some  wrong. 

The  Duchess,  and  her  daughters  fair, 
And  every  gentle  ladj^e  there. 
Each  after  each,  in  due  degree. 
Gave  praises  to  his  melody;  360 

His  hand  was  true,  his  voice  was  clear. 
And  much  they  longed  the  rest  to  hear. 
Encouraged  thus,  the  Aged  Man, 
After  meet  rest,  again  began. 


OUTLINE  OF  CANTO  SECOND. 


The  description  of  Melrose  Abbey  by  moonlight,  opening  this 
canto,  is  familiar  to  many  who  are  not  acquainted  with  the  rest  of 
the  poem,  as  one  of  the  finest  poetical  descriptions  ever  given  of 
Melrose.  It  is  said  that  Scott  wi-ote  it  before  he  had  ever  seen 
Melrose  by  moonlight. 

William  of  Ueloraine  thinks  little  of  the  beauty  of  the  scene, 
knocks  with  his  dagger  at  the  wicket,  is  admitted  by  the  porter 
and  led  to  the  cell  of  the  ancient  monk,  to  whom  he  tells  his  errand. 
The  request  for  Michael  Scott's  book  stirs  the  monk's  recollections 
of  his  youthful  days,  "  when  he  was  a  warrior  bold,  and  fought  in 
Spain  and  Italy."  He  tells  Deloraine  of  his  past  life  and  the  won- 
derful  magic  of  his  friend,  Michael  Scott.  They  sit  among  the 
tombs,  waiting  for  the  bell  to  toll  one,  when  they  are  to  open  the 
grave  of  the  wizard.  Deloraine  lifts  the  ponderous  stone,  and  then 
follows  a  wonderful  description  of  the  wizard's  appearance,  and 
the  weird  effect  of  the  chapel,  as  seen  in  the  glorious  light  that 
bursts  from  the  tomb.  As  Deloraine  remounts  his  horse,  the 
precious  book  safe  within  his  corslet,  his  courage,  shaken  by  the 
night's  adventures,  begins  to  revive.  He  says  his  "Ave  Mary,"  and 
hastens  on  his  homeward  road. 

In  the  same  early  morning,  Fair  Margaret  and  Lord  Cranstovm 
have  a  meeting  in  a  grove  near  Branksome.  But  their  talk  is  sud- 
denly interrupted  by  the  baron's  page,  a  goblin,  whose  story  is  here 
told.  He  warns  them  of  approaching  danger,  and  Cranstoun  mounts 
and  rides  away,  while  Mai-garet  flees  to  the  castle. 


I. 

If  thou  wouldst  view  fair  INIelrose  aright, 

Go  visit  it  by  the  pale  moonlight; 

For  the  gay  beams  of  lightsome  day 

Gild,  but  to  flout,  the  ruins  gray. 

When  the  broken  arches  are  black  in  night,  5 

And  each  shafted  oriel  glimmers  white  ; 

When  the  cold  light's  uncertain  shower 

Streams  on  the  ruined  central  tower; 

When  buttress  and  buttress,  alternately, 

Seeui  framed  of  ebon  and  ivory ;  10 

When  silver  edges  the  imagery, 

And  the  scrolls  that  teach  thee  to  live  and  die ; 

When  distant  Tweed  is  heard  to  rave, 

And  the  owlet  to  hoot  o'er  the  dead  man's  grave, 

Then  go — but  go  alone  the  while —  15 

Then  view  St.  David's  ruined  pile  : 

And,  home  returning,  soothly  swear, 

Was  never  scene  so  sad  and  fair  I 

1 

Short  halt  did  Deloraine  make  there; 

Little  recked  he  of  the  scene  so  fair.  20 

With  dagger's  hilt,  on  the  wicket  strong, 

He  struck  full  loud,  and  struck  full  long. 

Ifi.  David  the  First  of  Scotland  was  sainted  for  founding  Melrose  and 
other  monasteries. 


CANTO  n.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST  MINSTREL.  31 

The  porter  hurried  to  the  gate  — 

"Who  knocks  so  loud,  and  knocks  so  late?" 

*'  From  Branksome  I,"  the  warrior  cried ;  25 

And  straight  the  wicket  opened  wide : 

For  Branksome's  chiefs  had  in  battle  stood, 

To  fence  the  rights  of  fair  ]\Ielrose ; 
And  lands  and  livings,  many  a  rood, 

Had  gifted  the  shrine  for  their  souls'  repose.  30 

III. 

Bold  Deloraine  his  errand  said  ; 

The  porter  bent  his  humble  head  ; 

With  torch  in  hand,  and  feet  unshod, 

And  noiseless  step,  the  path  he  trod; 

The  arched  cloisters,  far  and  wide,  35 

Rang  to  the  warrior's  clanking  stride ; 

Till,  stooping  low  his  lofty  crest. 

He  entered  the  cell  of  the  ancient  priest, 

And  lifted  his  barred  aventayle, 

To  hail  the  Monk  of  St.  Mary's  aisle.  40 

IV. 

"The  Layde  of  Branksome  greets  thee  by  me; 

Says,  that  the  fated  hour  is  come, 
And  that  to-night  I  shall  watch  with  thee, 

To  win  the  treasure  of  the  tomb." 
From  sackcloth  conch  the  Monk  arose,  45 

With  toil  his  stiffened  limbs  he  reared ; 

30.  Souls'  repose.  The  Buccleuch  family  conferred  many  benefits  upon 
Melrose  Abbey,  in  order  that  masses  should  be  sung  for  the  souls  of  their 
dead. 

39.  Aventayle.    Visor  of  a  helmet. 


32  LAY  OF  THE   LAST   MINSTllEL.  canto  ii. 

A  hundred  years  had  flung  their  snows 
On  his  thin  locks  and  lloating  beard. 

V. 

And  strangely  on  the  Knight  looked  he, 

And  his  blue  eyes  gleamed  wild  and  wide  ;  —  50 
"  And,  dar'st  thou,  warrior !  seek  to  see 

What  heaven  and  hell  alike  would  hide? 
My  breast,  in  belt  of  iron  pent, 

With  shirt  of  hair  and  scourge  of  thorn; 
For  threescore  years,  in  penance  spent,  55 

My  knees  those  flinty  stones  have  worn ; 
Yet  all  too  little  to  atone 
For  knowing  what  should  ne'er  be  known. 

Wouldst  thou  thy  every  future  year 

In  ceaseless  prayer  and  penance  drie,  co 

Yet  wait  thy  latter  end  with  fear  — 
Then,  daring  warrior,  follow  me  I " 

VI. 

"Penance,  father,  will  I  none; 

Prayer  know  I  hardly  one  , 

For  mass  or  prayer  can  I  rarely  tarry,  65 

Save  to  patter  an  Ave  Mary, 

When  I  ride  on  a  Border  foray : 

Other  prayer  can  I  none ; 

So  speed  me  my  errand,  and  let  me  be  gone." 

VII. 

Again  on  the  Knight  looked  the  Churchman  old,  70 
And  again  he  sighed  heavily  ; 

67.  Foray.    Plundering  expedition. 


CANTO    II. 


LAY   OF  THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  33 


For  lie  liad  himself  been  a  warrior  bold, 

And  fought  in  Spain  and  Italy. 
And  he  thought  on  the  days  that  were  long  since,  by, 
When  his  limbs  were  strong,  and  his  courage  was 

high :  —  75 

Now,  slow  and  faint,  he  led  the  way. 
Where,  cloistered  round,  the  garden  lay ; 
The  pillared  arches  were  over  their  head, 
And  beneath  their  feet  were  the  bones  of  the  dead. 

VIII. 

Spreading  herbs,  and  flowerets  bright,  80 

Glistened  with  the  dew  of  night ; 
Nor  herb,  nor  floweret  glistened  there. 
But  was  carved  in  the  cloister-arches  as  fair. 
The  Monk  gazed  long  on  the  lovely  moon,  - 

Then  into  the  night  he  looked  forth ;  85 

And  red  and  bright  the  streamers  light 
Were  dancing  in  the  glowing  north. 
So  had  he  seen,  in  fair  Castile, 

The  youth  in  glittering  squadrons  start; 
Suddenly  the  flying  jennet  wheel,  90 

And  hurl  the  unexpected  dart. 
He  knew,  by  the  streamers  that  shot  so  bright, 
That  spirits  were  riding  the  northern  light. 

IX. 

By  a  steel-clenched  postern  door, 

They  entered  now  the  chancel  tall ;  85 

The  darkened  roof  rose  high  aloof 

90.  Jennet.    A  small  Spanish  horse. 


34  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  n. 

On  pillars,  lofty,  and  light,  and  small ; 
The  key-stone,  that  locked  each  ribbed  aisle, 
Was  a  fleur-de-lys,  or  a  quatre-feuille ; 
The  corbells  were  carved  grotesque  and  grim ;  loo 

And  the  pillars,  with  clustered  shafts  so  trim, 
AVith  base  and  with  capital  flourished  around, 
Seemed  bundles  of  lances  which  garlands  had  bound. 

X. 

Full  many  a  scutcheon  and  banner,  riven, 

Shook  to  the  cold  night-wind  of  heaven,  105 

Around  the  screened  altar's  pale  ; 
And  there  the  dying  lamps  did  burn 
Before  thy  low  and  lonely  urn, 
O  gallant  Chief  of  Otterburne, 

And  thine,  dark  Knight  of  Liddesdale !  no 

O  fading  honors  of  the  dead  ! 
O  high  ambition,  lowly  laid  I 

XI. 

The  moon  on  the  east  oriel  shone. 
Through  slender  shafts  of  shapely  stone, 

By  foliaged  tracery  combined  ;  115 

Thou  wouldst  have  thought  some  fairy's  hand, 
'Twixt  poplars  straight,  the  osier  wand, 

90.  Fleur-de-lys  mid  Quatre-feuille.  The  first,  a  three-parted  orna- 
mont ,  heloiiyinj;  to  tlic  arms  of  Fratu-e.   The  second,  a  four-leaved  ornament. 

100.  Corbells.    The  projections  from  which  arches  spring. 

10!).   Chief  of  Otterburne.    James,  Earl  of  Douglas,  slain  at  Otterburne. 

110.  Knight  of  Liddesdale.  William  Douglas,  slain  while  hunting  in 
Ettrick  Forest. 

11.3.  Oriel.  The  eastern  window  of  Melrose  Abbey,  a  beautiful  specimen 
of  pure  Gothic  architecture. 


CANTO  II.  LAY   OF   THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  35 

In  many  a  freakish  knot,  had  twined ; 
Then  framed  a  spell,  when  the  work  was  done, 
And  changed  the  willow-wreaths  to  stone.  120 

The  silver  light,  so  pale  and  faint. 
Showed  many  a  prophet,  and  many  a  saint. 

Whose  image  on  the  glass  was  dyed ; 
Full  in  the  midst,  his  Cross  of  Red 
Triumphant  Michael  brandished,  125 

And  trampled  the  Apostate's  pride. 
The  moonbeam  kissed  the  holy  pane. 
And  threw  on  the  pavement  a  bloody  stain. 

XII. 

They  sate  them  down  on  a  marble  stone, 

A  Scottish  monarch  slept  below;  130 

Thus  spoke  the  Monk,  in  solemn  tone :  — 

"  I  was  not  always  a  man  of  woe  ; 
For  Paynim  countries  I  have  trod, 
And  fought  beneath  the  Cross  of  God ; 
Now,  strange  to  my  eyes  thine  arms  appear,         135 
And  their  iron  clang  sounds  strange  to  my  ear. 

XIII. 

"  In  these  far  climes,  it  was  my  lot 
To  meet  the  wondrous  Michael  Scott; 

A  wizard  of  such  dreaded  fame. 
That  when,  in  Salamanca's  cave,  140 

130.  A  Scottish  monarcli.    Alexander  II. 

133.  Paynim.     Heathen. 

138.  Michael  Scott,  of  Balwearie,  a  man  of  great  learning  and  sup- 
posed to  be  a  magician  by  his  contemporaries,  lived  in  the  thirteenth 
century,  but  in  this  poem  he  is  placed  at  a  later  date. 

140.  Salamanca.  There  were  schools  for  teaching  the  sciences  supposed 
to  involve  magic,  in  a  cavern  at  Salamanca  in  Spain. 


36  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  ii. 

Him  listed  his  magic  wand  to  wave, 
The  bells  would  ring  in  Notre  Dame ! 

Some  of  his  skill  he  taught  to  me ; 

And,  Warrior,  I  could  say  to  thee 

The  words  that  cleft  Eildon  hills  in  three,  145 

And  bridled  the  Tweed  with  a  curb  of  stone : 

But  to  speak  them  were  a  deadly  sin ; 

And  for  having  but  thought  them  my  heart  within, 
A  treble  penance  must  be  done. 

XIV. 

"  When  Michael  lay  on  his  dying  bed,  150 

His  conscience  was  awakened ; 

He  bethought  him  of  his  sinful  deed, 

And  he  gave  me  a  sign  to  come  with  speed : 

I  was  in  Spain  when  the  morning  rose. 

But  I  stood  by  his  bed  ere  evening  close.  155 

The  words  may  not  again  be  said, 

That  he  spoke  to  me,  on  death-bed  laid  ; 

They  would  rend  this  Abbaye's  massy  nave, 

And  pile  it  in  heaps  above  his  grave. 

XV. 

"I  swore  to  bury  his  Mighty  Book,  I60 

That  never  mortal  might  therein  look  ; 

And  never  to  tell  where  it  was  hid. 

Save  at  the  chief  of  Branksome's  need  ; 

And  when  that  need  was  passed  and  o'er, 

Again  the  volume  to  restore.  los 

142.  Notre  Dame.     Cathedral  in  Paris. 

140.  Eildon  hills.  Tliese  bills  were  cleft  in  three,  and  a  dam-head  huilt 
across  the  Tweed  at  Kelso,  each  in  a  single  night,  by  a  spirit  under  Michael 
Scott's  orders. 


CANTO  n.  LAY   OF   TpE   LAST   MINSTREL.  37 

I  buried  liim  on  St.  Michael's  night, 

When  tlie  bell  tolled  one,  and  the  moon  was  bright, 

And  I  dug  his  chamber  among  the  dead, 

When  the  floor  of  the  chancel  was  stained  red, 

That  his  patron's  Cross  might  over  him  wave,  170 

And  scare  the  fiends  from  the  Wizard's  grave. 

xvr. 

"  It  was  a  night  of  woe  and  dread. 

When  Michael  in  the  tomb  I  laid ; 

Strange  sounds  along  the  chancel  passed, 

The  banners  waved  without  a  blast,"  —  175 

Still  spoke  the  Monk,  when  tlie  bell  tolled  one !  — 

I  tell  you,  that  a  braver  man 

Than  William  of  Deloraine,  good  at  need, 

Against  a  foe  ne'er  spurred  a  steed; 

Yet  somewhat  was  he  chilled  with  dread,  iso 

And  his  hair  did  bristle  upon  his  head. 

XVII. 

"  Lo,  Warrior !  now,  the  Cross  of  Red 

Points  to  the  grave  of  the  mighty  dead ; 

Within  it  burns  a  wondrous  light. 

To  chase  the  spirits  that  love  the  night :  185 

That  lamp  shall  burn  unquenchabl}', 

Until  the  eternal  doom  shall  be." 

Slow  moved  the  Monk  to  the  broad  flag-stone, 

Whicli  the  bloody  Cross  was  traced  upon : 

He  pointed  to  a  secret  nook ;  190 

An  iron  bar  the  warrior  took ; 

And  the  INIoiik  made  a  sign,  with  his  withered  hand. 

The  grave's  huge  portal  to  expand. 


38  LAY   OP   THE  LAST  MINSTREL.  canto  ii. 

XVIII. 

With  beating  heart  to  the  task  he  went ; 

His  sinewy  frame  o'er  the  grave-stone  bent;  195 

With  bar  of  iron  heaved  amain, 

Till  the  toil-drops  fell  from  his  brows,  like  rain. 

It  was  by  dint  of  passing  strength, 

That  he  moved  the  massy  stone  at  length. 

I  would  you  had  been  there,  to  see  200 

How  the  light  broke  forth  so  gloriously, 

Streamed  upward  to  the  chancel  roof, 

And  through  the  galleries  far  aloof! 
No  earthly  flame  blazed  e'er  so  bright : 
It  shone  like  heaven's  own  blessed  light;  205 

And,  issuing  from  the  tomb. 
Showed  the  Monk's  cowl,  and  visage  pale. 
Danced  on  the  dark-brow'd  Warrior's  mail, 
And  kissed  his  waving  plume. 

XIX. 

Before  their  eyes  the  Wizard  lay,  210 

As  if  he  had  not  been  dead  a  day. 

His  hoary  beard  in  silver  rolled, 

He  seemed  some  seventy  winters  old ; 

A  palmer's  amice  wrapped  him  round, 

With  a  wrought  Spanish  Baldric  bound,  215 

Like  a  pilgrim  from  beyond  the  sea : 

His  left  hand  held  his  Book  of  Might : 

A  silver  cross  was  in  his  right ; 

207.  Cowl.    Hood. 

214.  Amice.    Flowing  cloak  worn  by  pilgrims  (palmers). 

215.  Baldric.    Belt  worn  over  the  shonlder. 
217.  Book  of  Might.    Book  of  magic. 


CANTO  II.  LAY  "OF  THE   LAST  MINSTREL.  S9 

The  lamp  was  placed  beside  his  knee : 
High  and  majestic  -was  his  look,  220 

At  which  the  fellest  fiends  had  shook, 
And  all  unruffled  was  his  face :  — 
They  trusted  his  soul  had  gotten  grace.  ' 

XX. 

Often  had  William  of  Deloraine 

Rode  through  the  battle's  bloody  plain,  225 

And  trampled  down  the  warriors  slain, 

And  neither  known  remorse  nor  awe ; 
Yet  now  remorse  and  awe  he  own'd ; 
His  breath  came  thick,  his  head  swam  round. 

When  this  strange  scene  of  death  he  saw.  230 

Bewildered  and  unnerved  he  stood. 
And  the  priest  prayed  fervently,  and  loud : 
With  eyes  averted  prayed  he; 
He  might  not  endure  the  sight  to  see, 
Of  the  man  he  had  loved  so  brotherly.  235 

xxr. 

And  when  the  Priest  his  death-prayer  had  prayed, 

Thus  unto  Deloraine  he  said : 

"  Now  speed  thee  what  thou  hast  to  do, 

Or,  Warrior,  we  may  dearly  rue  ;  , 

For  those  thou  mayest  not  look  upon,  240 

Are  gathering  fast  round  the  yawning  stone  !  " 

Then  Deloraine,  in  terror,  took 

From  the  cold  hand  the  Mighty  Book, 

With  iron  clasped,  and  with  iron  bound : 

221.  Fellest.    Most  powerful. 


40  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  ii. 

He  thought,  as  he  took  it,  the  dead  man  frowned ;       245 
But  the  glare  of  the  sepulchral  light, 
Perchance,  liad  dazzled  the  warrior's  sight. 

XXII, 

When  the  huge  stone  sunk  o'er  the  tomb, 

The  night  returned,  in  double  gloom ; 

For  the  moon  had  gone  down,  and  the  stars  were  few    250 

And,  as  the  Knight  and  Priest  withdrew. 

With  wavering  steps  and  dizzy  brain, 

They  hardly  might  the  postern  gain. 

'Tis  said,  as-through  the  aisles  they  passed, 

They  heard  strange  noises  on  the  blast;  255 

And  through  the  cloister-galleries  small. 

Which  at  mid  height  thread  the  chancel  wall, 

Loud  sobs,  and  laughter  louder,  ran, 

And  voices,  unlike  the  voice  of  man ; 

As  if  the  fiends  kept  holiday,  2G0 

Because  these  spells  were  brought  to  day. 

I  cannot  tell  how  the  truth  may  be ; 

I  say  the  tale  as  'twas  said  to  me. 

xxin. 

"  Now,  hie  thee  hence,"  the  Father  said, 
"  And,  when  we  are  on  death-bed  laid,  265 

O  may  our  dear  Ladye,  and  sweet  St.  John, 
Fore^ive  our  souls  for  the  deed  we  have  done." 
The  Monk  returned  him  to  his  cell. 

And  many  a  prayer  and  penance  sped; 
When  the  convent  met  at  the  noontide  bell  —         270 
The  Monk  of  St.  Mary's  aisle  was  dead ! 


CANTO  II.  LAY   OF   THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  41 

Before  the  cross  was  the  body  hiitl, 

With  hands  ehisped  fast,  as  if  still  he  prayed. 

XXIV. 

The  Knight  breathed  free  in  the  morning  wind, 

And  strove  his  hardihood  to  find :  275 

He  was  glad  when  he  passed  the  tombstones  gray 

Which  girdle  round  the  fair  Abbaye ; 

For  the  mystic  Book,  to  his  bosom  prest, 

Felt  like  a  load  upon  his  breast; 

And  his  joints,  with  nerves  of  iron  twined,  28O 

Shook,  like  the  aspen  leaves  in  wind. 

Full  fain  was  he  when  the  dawn  of  day 

Began  to  brighten  Cheviot  gray  ; 

He  joyed  to  see  the  cheerful  light. 

And  he  said  Ave  Mary,  as  well  as  he  might.  285 

XXV. 

The  sun  had  brightened  Cheviot  gray, 

Tlie  sun  had  brightened  the  Carter's  side ; 
And  soon  beneath  the  rising  day 

Smiled  Branksonie  towers  and  Teviot's  tide. 
The  wild  birds  told  their  warbling  tale,  290 

And  wakened  every  flower  that  blows ; 
And  peeped  forth  the  violet  pale, 

And  spread  her  breast  the  mountain  rose  ;• 
And  lovelier  than  the  rose  so  red, 

Yet  paler  than  the  violet  pale,  295 

283.   Cheviot  hills.    Hills  between  England  and  Scotland. 
287.   Carter.     A  mountain  among  the  Cheviot  hills. 


42  LAY   OF  THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  ii. 

/ 

She  early  left  her  sleepless  bed, 
lie  fairest  maid  of  Teviotdale. 

XXVI. 

Why  does  fair  Margaret  so  early  awake, 

And  don  her  kirtle  so  hastilie  ; 
And  the  silken  knots,  which  in  hurry  she  would 

make,  300 

Why  tremble  her  slender  fingers  to  tie  ; 
Why  does  she  stop,  and  look  often  around, 

As  she  glides  down  the  secret  stair ; 
And  why  does  she  pat  the  shaggy  blood-hound, 

As  he  rouses  him  up  from  his  lair ;  305 

And,  though  she  passes  the  postern  alone, 
Why  is  not  the  watchman's  bugle  blown? 

XXVII. 

The  ladye  steps  in  doubt  and  dread, 

Lest  her  watchful  mother  hear  her  tread; 

The  ladye  caresses  the  rough  blood-hound,  3io 

Lest  his  voice  should  waken  the  castle  round ; 

The  watchman's  bugle  is  not  blown. 

For  he  was  her  foster-father's  son  ; 

And  she  glides  through  the  greenwood  at  dawn  of  light, 

To  meet  Baron  Henry,  her  own  true  Knight.  315 

i  XXVIII. 

The  Knight  and  Ladye  fair  are  met, 

And  under  the  hawtliorn's  boughs  are  set: 

A  fairer  pair  were  never  seen 

To  meet  beneath  the  hawthorn  green. 


CANTO  II.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST  MINSTREL.  43 

He  was  stately,  and  young,  and  tall ;  ^^o 

Dreaded  in  battle,  and  loved  in  hall: 

And  she,  when  love,  scarce  told,  scarce  hid, 

Lent  to  her  cheek  a  livelier  red ; 

When  the  half  sigh  her  swelling  breast 

Against  the  silken  ribbon  pressed ;  325 

When  her  blue  eyes  their  secret  told, 

Though  shaded  by  her  locks  of  gold  — 

Where  would  you  find  the  peerless  fair, 

With  Margaret  of  Branksome  might  compare  ? 

XXIX. 

And  now,  fair  dames,  methinks  I  see  330 

You  listen  to  my  minstrelsy ; 

Your  waving  locks  ye  backward  throw, 

And  sidelong  bend  your  necks  of  snow :  — 

Ye  ween  to  hear  a  melting  tale, 

Of  two  true  lovers  in  a  dale ;  335 

And  how  the  Knight,  with  tender  fire. 

To  paint  his  faithful  passion  strove ; 
Swore  he  might  at  her  feet  expire, 

But  never,  never  cease  to  love ; 
And  how  she  blushed,  and  how  she  sighed,  340 

And  half  consenting,  half  denied, 
And  said  that  she  would  die  a  maid :  — 
Yet,  might  the  bloody  feud  be  stayed, 
Henry  of  Cranstoun,  and  only  he, 
Margaret  of  Branksome's  choice  should  be.  345 

334.  Ween.    Think. 


44  LAY   OF   THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  ii. 

XXX. 

Alas  !  fair  dames,  your  hopes  are  vain  ! 
My  harp  has  lost  the  enchanting  strain; 

Its  lightness  would  my  age  reprove : 
My  hairs  are  gray,  my  limbs  are  old, 
My  heart  is  dead,  my  veins  are  cold  :  —  350 

I  may  not,  must  not,  sing  of  love. 

XXXI. 

Beneath  an  oak,  mossed  o'er  by  eld. 
The  Baron's  Dwarf  his  courser  held. 

And  held  his  crested  helm  and  spear: 
That  Dwarf  was  scarcely  an  earthly  man,  355 

If  the  tales  were  true,  that  of  him  ran 

Through  all  the  Border  far  and  near. 
'Twas  sad,  when  the  Baron  a  hunting  rode 
Through  Reedsdale's  glens,  but  rarely  trod, 
He  heard  a  voice  cr}^  "  Lost !  lost !  lost !  "  .  360 

And,  like  tennis-ball  by  raquet  tossed, 

A  leap,  of  thirty  feet  and  three, 
Made  from  the  gorse  this  elfin  shape, 
Distorted  like  some  dwarfish  ape, 

And  lighted  at  Lord  Cranstoun's  knee.  365 

Lord  Cranstoun  was  some  whit  dismayed: 
'Tis  said  that  five  good  miles  he  rade, 

To  rid  him  of  his  company; 
But  where  he  rode  one  mile,  the  Dwarf  ran  four, 
And  the  Dwarf  was  first  at  the  castle  door.  370 


352.  Eld.     Old  age. 

363.   Gorse.    A  small  shrub. 


CANTO  11.  LAY   OF   THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  45 


XXXII. 

Use  lessens  marvel,  it  is  said. 

This  elfish  Dwarf  with  the  Baron  staid : 

Little  he  ate,  and  less  he  spoke, 

Nor  mingled  with  the  menial  flock; 

And  oft  apart  his  arms  he  tossed,  375 

And  often  muttered,  "Lost!  lost!  lost !  "  ■ 
He  was  waspish,  arch,  and  litherlie. 
But  well  Lord  Cranstoun  served  he : 

And  he  of  his  service  was  full  fain; 

For  once  he  had  been  ta'en  or  slain,  330 

An'  it  had  not  been  for  his  ministry. 

All,  between  Home  and  Hermitage, 

Talked  of  Lord  Cranstoun's  Goblin  Page. 

XXXIII. 

For  the  Baron  w-ent  on  pilgrimage, 

And  took  with  him  this  elvish  page,  385 

To  Mary's  chapel  of  the  Lowes : 
For  there,  beside  Our  Ladye's  lake, 
An  offering  he  had  sworn  to  make, 

And  he  would  pay  his  vows. 
But  the  Ladj^e  of  Branksome  gathered  a  band     390 
Of  the  best  that  would  ride  at  her  command : 

The  try  sting-place  was  Newark  Lee. 
Wat  of  Harden  came  thither  amain, 
And  thither  came  John  of  Thirlestaine, 
And  thither  came  William  of  Deloraine  ;  395 

377.  Litherlie.    Mischievous. 

379.  Fain.     Ghid. 

392.   Trysting-place.    Gathering-place. 


46  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  ii. 

There  were  three  hundred  spears  and  three. 
Through  Douglas-burn,  up  Yarrow  stream, 
Their  horses  prance,  their  lances  gleam. 
They  came  to  St.  Mary's  lake  ere  day ; 
But  the  chapel  was  void,  and  the  Baron  away.     400 
They  burned  the  chapel  for  very  rage, 
And  cursed  Lord  Cranstoun's  Goblin  Page. 

XXXIV. 

And  now,  in  Branksome's  good  greenwood, 

As  under  the  aged  oak  he  stood, 

The  Baron's  courser  pricks  his  ears,  405 

As  if  a  distant  noise  he  hears. 

The  Dwarf  waves  his  long  lean  arm  on  high. 

And  signs  to  the  lovers  to  part  and  fly ; 

No  time  was  then  to  vow  or  sigh. 

Fair  Margaret,  through  the  hazel  grove,  410 

Flew  like  the  startled  cushat-dove : 

The  Dwarf  the  stirrup  held  and  rein ; 

Vaulted  the  Knight  on  his  steed  amain. 

And,  pondering  deep  that  morning's  scene. 

Rode  eastward  through  the  hawthorns  green.       415 


While  thus  he  poured  the  lengthened  tale. 

The  Minstrel's  voice  began  to  fail : 

Full  slyly  smiled  the  observant  page, 

And  gave  the  withered  hand  of  age 

A  goblet,  crowned  with  mighty  wine,  420 

The  blood  of  Velez'  scorched  vine. 

He  raised  the  silver  cup  on  high, 

411.  Cushat-dove.    Wood  pigeon. 


CANTO  n.  LAY  OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  47 

And,  while  the  big  drop  filled  his  eye, 

Prayed  God  to  bless  the  Duchess  long, 

And  all  who  cheered  a  son  of  song.  425 

The  attending  maidens  smiled  to  see 

How  long,  how  deep,  how  zealously. 

The  precious  juice  the  Minstrel  quaffed; 

And  he,  emboldened  by  the  draught. 

Looked  gayly  back  to  them,  and  laughed.  430 

The  cordial  nectar  of  tlie  bowl 

Swelled  his  old  veins,  and  cheered  his  soul ; 

A  lighter,  livelier  prelude  ran, 

Ere  thus  his  tale  again  began. 


OUTLINE  OF  CANTO  THIRD. 


LoKD  Cranstoun  has  scarcely  time  to  don  his  hehiiet,  when  he 
meets  William  of  Deloraine,  hastening  homeward  from  his  night's 
eiTand.  The  fight  between  the  two  foemen  is  short  and  fierce,  and 
Deloraine  is  left  senseless  on  the  field.  But  Deloraine  is  the  kins- 
man of  Fair  IMargaret,  and  Cranstoun  will  not  leave  him  to  die.  He 
bids  his  page  to  stanch  the  wound  and  take  him  to  Branksome 
Castle.  Cranstoun  himself  hurries  away  from  this  dangerous 
neighborhood.  Upon  unfastening  Deloraine's  corslet,  the  dwarf 
espies  the  book.  He  smears  the  cover  with  the  Borderer's  blood,  — 
Christian  blood  having  power  over  magic  —  opens  the  book,  and 
reads  one  short  spell.  But  he  is  suddenly  felled  to  the  ground  by 
an  unseen  hand,  and  the  book  shuts  faster  than  it  was  before. 
Then  he  obeys  his  master's  command  and  carries  Deloraine  even 
to  the  door  of  the  Lady's  secret  bower,  disguising  himself  and  his 
burden  by  magic.  In  passing  out  he  sees  the  little  boy,  the  heir  of 
Branksome,  and  under  the, guise  of  a  comrade  leads  him  to  the 
woods  to  play.  As  they  cross  a  running  stream,  his  magic  disguise 
is  destroyed,  and  he  assumes  his  goblin  shape  and  flees  away  into 
the  forest,  leaving  the  child  alone.  The  boy  is  found  by  an  English 
archer,  who,  delighted  at  so  great  a  prize  as  the  heir  of  Buccleuch, 
carries  him  to  Lord  Dacre,  one  of  the  English  wardens  of  the 
border.  In  the  meantime,  the  goblin  page  takes  the  form  of  the 
boy  at  Branksome  Castle,  and  prevents  his  loss  being  known. 

As  night  approaches.  Fair  ]\Iargaret,  sitting  alone  on  the  castle 
turret,  suddenly  espies  a  beacon  fire  toward  the  Border  land  on  the 
south.  Then  follows  a  spirited  description  of  the  preparations  for 
Border,  warfare. 


I. 

And  said  I  that  my  limbs  were  old ; 
And  said  I  that  my  blood  was  cold, 
And  that  my  kindly  fire  was  fled, 
And  my  poor  withered  heart  was  dead. 

And  that  I  might  not  sing  of  love  ?  —  .5 

How  could  I,  to  the  dearest  theme 
That  ever  warmed  a  minstrel's  dream. 

So  foul,  so  false,  a  recreant  prove ! 
How  could  I  name  love's  very  name. 
Nor  wake  my  heart  to  notes  of  flame  !  10 

u. 

"In  peace.  Love  tunes  the  shepherd's  reed; 
In  war,  he  mounts  the  warrior's  steed; 
In  halls,  in  gay  attire  is  seen ; 
In  hamlets,  dances  on  the  green. 
Love  rules  the  court,  the  camp,  the  grove,  15 

And  men  below,  and  saints  above ; 
For  love  is  heaven,  and  heaven  is  love. 

ni. 

So  thought  Lord  Cranstoun,  as  T  ween, 
While,  pondering  deep  the  tender  scene, 
He  rode  through  Branksome's  hawthorn  green.     20 
But  the  Page  shouted  wild  and  shrill  — 


50  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTIIEL.  canto  hi. 

And  scarce  liis  helmet  could  he  don, 
When  downward  from  the  shady  hill 
A  stately  knight  came  pricking  on. 
That  warrior's  steed,  so  dapple-gra}'',  25 

Was  dark  with  sweat,  and  splashed  with  clay ; 

His  armor  red  with  many  a  stain : 
He  seemed  in  such  a  weary  plight. 
As  if  he  had  ridden  the  livelong  night; 
For  it  was  William  of  Deloraine. 


30 


IV. 

But  no  whit  weary  did  he  seem, 

When,  dancing  in  the  sunny  beam. 

He  marked  the  crane  on  the  Baron's  crest ; 

For  his  ready  spear  was  in  his  rest. 

Few  were  the  words,  and  stern  and  high,  35 

That  marked  the  foeman's  feudal  hate ; 

For  question  fierce,  and  proiid  reply. 
Gave  signal  soon  of  dire  debate. 
Their  very  coursers  seemed  to  know 
That  each  was  other's  mortal  foe ;  40 

And  snorted  fire,  when  wheeled  around. 
To  give  each  knight  his  vantage  ground. 

V. 

In  rapid  round  the  Baron  bent; 

He  sighed  a  sigh,  and  prayed  a  prayer: 
The  prayer  was  to  his  patron  saint,  45 

The  sigh  was  to  his  ladye  fair. 

33.  Crest.    The  ornament  on  the  top  of  the  helmet.    The  Cranstoun's 
crest  was  a  crane,  in  allusion  to  their  name. 


CANTO  III.  LAY   OF   THE    LAST    MINSTREL.  51 

Stout  Deloraine  nor  sighed,  nor  prayed, 

Nor  saint,  nor  ladye,  called  to  aid ; 

But  he  stooped  his  head,  and  couched  his  spear. 

And  spurred  his  steed  to  full  career.  50 

The  meeting  of  these  champions  proud 

Seemed  like  the  bursting  thunder-cloud. 

VI. 

Stern  was  the  dint  the  Borderer  lent ! 

The  stately  Baron  backwards  bent ; 

Bent  backwards  to  his  horse's  tail,  55 

And  his  plumes  went  scattering  on  the  gale ; 

The  tough  ash  spear,  so  stout  and  true, 

Into  a  thousand  flinders  flew. 

But  Cranstoun's  lance,  of  more  avail, 

Pierced  through,  like  silk,  the  Borderer's  mail; 

Through  shield,  and  jack,  and  acton  passed. 

Deep  in  his  bosom  broke  at  last.  — 

Still  sate  the  warrior  saddle-fast. 

Till,  stumbling  in  the  mortal  shock, 

Down  went  the  steed,  the  girthing  broke,  65 

Hurled  on  a  heap  lay  man  and  horse. 

The  Baron  onward  passed  his  course ; 

Nor  knew  —  so  giddy  rolled  his  brain  — 

His  foe  lay  stretched  upon  the  plain. 

vn. 

But  when  he  reined  his  courser  round,  70 

And  saw  his  foeman  on  the  ground 

fil.  Jack.     A  coat  of  mail.  —  Acton.    A  leather  jacket  worn  uuder  a 
coat  of  mail. 


52  LAY   or   THE  LAST   MINSTHEL.  canto  hi. 

Lie  senseless  as  the  bloody  clay, 
He  bade  his  page  to  stanch  the  wound, 

And  there  beside  the  warrior  stay. 
And  tend  him  in  his  doubtful  state,  75 

And  lead  him  to  Branksome  castle-gate: 
His  noble  mind  was  inly  moved 
For  the  kinsman  of  the  maid  he  loved. 
"This  shalt  thou  do  without  delay; 
No  longer  here  myself  may  stay ;  80 

Unless  the  swifter  I  speed  away. 
Short  shrift  will  be  at  my  dying  day." 

VIII. 

Away  in  speed  Lord  Cranstoun  rode ; 

The  Goblin  Page  behind  abode : 

His  lord's  command  he  ne'er  withstood,  85 

Though  small  his  pleasure  to  do  good. 

As  the  corslet  off  he  took. 

The  Dwarf  espied  the  Mighty  Book  ! 

Much  he  marvelled,  a  Kniglit  of  pride 

Like  a  book-bosomed  priest  should  ride :  90 

He  thouglit  not  to  search  or  stanch  the  wound. 

Until  the  secret  he  had  found. 

IX. 

The  iron  band,  the  iron  clasp, 

Resisted  long  the  elfin  grasp ; 

For  when  the  first  he  had  undone,  95 

87.  Corslet.    Breastplate. 

iK).  Book-bosomed  priest.  Friars  were  wont  to  travel  from  Melrose 
to  Jedl)iiri;  to  perform  various  religious  services,  carrying  the  mass-book 
in  their  bosoms. 


CANTO    III. 


LAY   OF  THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  53 


It  closed  as  he  the  next  begun. 

Those  iron  chisps,  that  iron  band, 

Would  not  yield  to  unchristened  hand, 

Till  he  smeared  the  cover  o'er 

With  the  Borderer's  curdled  gore  ;  lOO 

A  moment  then  the  volume  spread, 

And  one  short  spell  therein  he  read. 

It  had  much  of  glamour  might. 

Could  make  a  layde  seem  a  knight; 

The  cobwebs  on  a  dungeon  wall,  105 

Seem  tapestry  in  lordly  hall ; 

A  nut-shell  seem  a  gilded  barge, 

A  sheeling  seem  a  palace  large, 

And  youth  seem  age,  and  age  seem  youth  — 

All  was  delusion,  naught  was  truth.  110 

X. 

He  had  not  read  another  spell, 

When  on  his  cheek  a  buffet  fell,  — 

So  fierce,  it  stretched  him  on  the  plain, 

Beside  the  wounded  Deloraine. 

From  the  ground  he  rose  dismayed,  115 

And  shook  his  huge  and  matted  head ; 

One  word  he  muttered,  and  no  more, 

"  Man  of  age,  thou  smitest  sore  !  " 

No  more  the  Elfin  Page  durst  try 

Into  the  wondrous  Book  to  pry ;  120 

The  clasps,  though  smeared  with  Christian  gore, 

103.  Glamour.    Magic. 
108.  Sheeling.    Shepherd's  hut. 

121.  Christian  gore.    Christian  blood  (gore)  could  break  any  magic 
spell. 


54  LAY   OF   THE  LAST  MINSTREL.  canto  hi. 

Shut  faster  than  they  were  before. 

He  hid  it  underneath  his  ch^ak.  — 

Now,  if  you  ask  who  gave  the  stroke, 

I  cannot  tell,  so  mot  I  thrive ;  125 

It  was  not  given  by  man  alive. 

XL 

Unwillingly  himself  he  addressed, 

To  do  his  master's  high  behest: 

He  lifted  up  the  living  corse. 

And  laid  it  on  the  weary  horse ;  130 

He  led  him  into  Branksome  Hall, 

Before  the  beards  of  the  warders  all, 

And" each  did  after  swear  and  say, 

There  only  passed  a  wain  of  hay. 

He  took  him  to  Lord  David's  tower,  135 

Even  to  the  Ladye's  secret  bower ; 

And,  but  that  stronger  spells  were  spread, 

And  the  door  might  not  be  opened. 

He  had  laid  him  on  her  very  bed. 

Whate'er  he  did  of  gramarye,  140 

Was  always  done  maliciousl}^ : 

He  flung  the  warrior  on  the  ground. 

And  the  blood  welled  freshly  from  the  wound. 

XIL 

As  he  repassed  the  outer  court, 

He  spied  the  fair  young  child  at  sport:  145 

He  thought  to  train  him  to  the  wood; 

For,  at  a  word,  be  it  understood, 

V25.  Mot.     Miglit.         140.   Gramarye.     Magic.        14G.  Train.    Entice. 


CANTO    III. 


LAY   OF  THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  55 


He  was  always  for  ill,  and  never  for  good. 

Seemed  to  the  boy,  some  comrade  gay 

Led  him  forth  to  the  woods  to  play  ;  150 

On  the  drawbridge  the  warders  stout 

Saw  a  terrier  and  lurcher  passing  out. 

xiir. 

He  led  the  boy  o'er  bank  and  fell, 

Until  they  came  to  a  woodland  brook  ; 

The  running  stream  dissolved  the  spell,  155 

And  his  own  elvish  shape  he  took. 

Could  he  have  had  his  pleasure  vilde, 

He  had  crippled  the  joints  of  the  noble  child ; 

Or,  with  his  fingers  long  and  lean, 

Had  strangled  him  in  fiendish  spleen :  I60 

But  his  awful  mother  he  had  in  dread, 

And  also  his  power  was  limited ; 

So  he  but  scowled  on  the  startled  child, 

And  darted  through  the  forest  wild ; 

The  woodland  brook  he  bounding  crossed,  103 

.And  laughed,  and  shouted,  "  Lost !  lost !  lost !  " 

XIV. 

Full  sore  amazed  at  the  wondrous  change, 

And  frightened,  as  a  child  might  be, 
At  the  wild  yell  and  visage  strange. 

And  the  dark  words  of  gramarye,  170 

The  child,  amidst  the  forest  bower, 
Stood  rooted  like  a  lilye  flower  ; 

And  when  at  length,  with  trembling  pace, 

152.  Lurcher.     A  kind  of  hunting  dos:. 

155.  Spell.     A  running  stream  destroys  all  magic. 


56  LAY   OF   THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  hi. 

He  sought  to  find  where  Braiiksome  hiy, 
He  feared  to  see  that  grisly  face  175 

Ghire  from  some  thicket  on  his  way. 
Thus,  starting  oft,  he  journeyed  on, 
And  deeper  in  the  wood  is  gone,  — 
For  aye  the  more  he  sought  his  way, 
The  farther  still  he  went  astra}^,  —  I80 

Until  he  heard  the  mountains  round 
Ring  to  the  baying  of  a  hound. 

XV. 

And  hark  !  and  hark  !  the  deep-mouthed  bark 

Comes  nigher  still,  and  niglier  ; 
Bursts  on  the  path  a  dark  blood-hound,  185 

His  tawny  muzzle  tracked  the  ground, 

And  his  red  eye  shot  fire. 
Soon  as  the  wildered  child  saw  he, 
He  flew  at  him  right  furionslie. 

I  ween  you  would  have  seen  with  joy  190 

The  bearing  of  the  gallant  boy, 
When,  worthy  of  his  noble  sire. 
His  wet  cheek  glowed  'twixt  fear  and  ire! 
He  faced  the  blood-hound  manfully, 
And  held  his  little  bat  on  high ;  ids 

So  fierce  he  struck,  the  dog,  afraid, 
At  cautious  distance  hoarsely  bayed. 

But  still  in  act  to  spring  ; 
When  dashed  an  archer  through  the  glade. 
And  when  he  saw  the  hound  was  stayed,  200 

He  drew  his  tough  bow-string  ; 
But  a  rough  voice  cried,  "  Shoot  not,  hoy  ! 
Ho !  shoot  not,  Edward  —  'tis  a  boy  !  " 


CANTO   III. 


LAY   OF  THE  LAST   MINSTHEL.  57 


XVI. 

The  speaker  issued  from  the  wood, 

And  checked  his  fellow's  surly  mood,  205 

And  quelled  the  ban-dog's  ire  : 
He  was  an  English  yeoman  good, 

And  born  in  Lancashire. 
Well  could  he  hit  a  fallow-deer 

Five  hundred  feet  him  fro  ;  -210 

With  hand  more  true,  and  eye  more  clear. 

No  archer  bended  bow. 
His  coal-black  hair,  shorn  round  and  close, 

Set  off  his  sun-burned  face  ; 
Old  England's  sign,  St.  George's  cross,  215 

His  barret-cap  did  grace  ; 
His  bugle-horn  hung  by  his  side. 
All  in  a  wolf-skin  baldric  tied ; 
And  his  short  falchion,  sharp  and  clear. 
Had  pierced  the  throat  of  many  a  deer.  220 

XVII. 

His  kirtle,  made  of  forest  green, 

Reached  scantly  to  his  knee ; 
And,  at  his  belt,  of  arrows  keen 

A  furbished  sheaf  bore  he  ; 
His  buckler  scarce  in  breadth  a  span,  225 

No  loncrer  fence  had  he ; 
He  never  counted  him  a  man, 

206.  Ban-dog.    Fierce  dog  —  one  that  needs  to  be  bound. 

219.  FalcMon.    Sword. 

221.  Kirtle.     Tunic. 

224.  Sheaf.    Buudle.  226.  Fence.    Defence. 


58  LAY   OF   THE   LAST  MINSTREL.  canto  hi. 

Would  strike  below  the  knee. 
His  slackened  bow  was  in  his  hand, 
And  the  leash,  that  was  his  blood-hound's  band.  230 

XVIIL 

He  would  not  do  the  fair  child  harm. 

But  held  him  with  his  powerful  arm, 

That. he  might  neither  fight  nor  flee ; 

For  when  the  Red-Cross  spied  he, 

The  boy  strove  long  and  violently.  235 

"  Now,  by  St.  George,"  the  archer  cries, 

"  Edward,  methinks  we  have  a  prize  ! 

This  boy's  fair  face,  and  courage  free. 

Shows  he  is  come  of  high  degree." 

XIX. 

"  Yes !  I  am  come  of  high  degree,  240 

For  I  am  the  heir  of  bold  Buccleuch ; 
And,  if  thou  dost  not  set  me  free. 

False  Southron,  thou  shalt  dearly  rue  ! 
For  Walter  of  Harden  shall  come  with  speed, 
And  William  of  Deloraine,  good  at  need,  2i5 

And  every  Scott  from  Esk  to  Tweed ; 
And,  if  thou  dost  not  let  me  go. 
Despite  thy  arrows,  and  thy  bow, 
I'll  have  thee  hanged  to  feed  the  crow  ! " 

XX. 

"  Gramercy,  for  thy  good-will,  fair  boy  !  250 

My  mind  was  never  set  so  high  ; 

250.  Gramercy.    Thanks. 


CANTO    III. 


LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  59 


But  if  thou  art  chief  of  such  a  clan, 
And  art  the  son  of  such  a  man, 
And  ever  comest  to  thy  command. 

Our  wardens  had  need  to  keep  in  good  order  255 

My  bow  of  yew  to  a  hazel  wand, 

Thou'lt  make  them  work  upon  the  Border. 
Meantime  be  pleased  to  come  with  me, 
For  good  Lord  Dacre  shalt  thou  see ; 
I  think  our  work  is  well  begun,  ■  '      260 

When  we  have  taken  thy  father's  son." 

XXI. 

Although  the  child  was  led  away, 

In  Branksome  still  he  seemed  to  stay, 

For  so  the  Dwarf  his  part  did  play ; 

And,  in  the  shape  of  that  young  boy,  265 

He  wrought  the  castle  much  annoy. 

The  comrades  of  the  young  Buccleuch 

He  pinched,  and  beat,  and  overthrew  ; 

Nay,  some  of  them  he  well-nigh  slew. 

He  tore  Dame  Maudlin's  silken  tire;  270 

And,  as  Sym  Hall  stood  by  the  fire, 

He  lighted  the  match  of  his  bandelier, 

And  woefully  scorched  the  hackbuteer. 

It  may  hardly  be  thought,  or  said, 

The  mischief  that  the  urchin  made,  275 

Till  many  of  the  castle  guessed. 

That  the  young  Baron  was  possessed. 

255.  Wardens.     Officers  having  authority  on  the  Border. 
270.  Tire.     Head-dress. 

272.  Bandelier.     Belt  for  carrying  ammunition. 

273.  Hackbuteer.    A  soldier  armed  with  a  hackbut,  a  kind  of  heavy- 
musket. 


60  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MI^fSTHEL.  canto  hi. 

XXII. 

Well  I  ween,  the  charm  he  held 

The  noble  Ladye  had  soon  dispelled ; 

But  she  was  deeply  busied  then  280 

To  tend  the  wounded  Deloraine. 

Much  she  wondered  to  find  him  lie, 

On  the  stone  threshold  stretched  along  ; 

She  thought  some  spirit  of  the  sky 

Had  done  the  bold  moss-trooper  wrong,         285 
Because,  despite  her  precept  dread, 
Perchance  he  in  the  Book  had  read  ; 
But  the  broken  lance  in  his  bosom  stood, 
And  it  was  earthly  steel  and  wood. 

XXIII. 

She  drew  the  splinter  from  the  wound,  290 

And  with  a  charm  she  stanched  the  blood ; 
She  bade  the  gash  be  cleansed  and  bound : 

No  longer  by  his  couch  she  stood ; 
But  she  had  ta'en  the  broken  lance, 

And  washed  it  from  the  clotted  gore,  295 

And  salved  the  splinter  o'er  and  o'er. 
William  of  Deloraine  in  trance. 

Whene'er  she  turned  it  round  and  round, 
Twisted,  as  if  she  galled  his  wound. 

Then  to  her  maidens  she  did  say,  300 

'  That  he  should  be  whole  man  and  sound. 

Within  the  course  of  a  night  and  day. 

290.  Salved  the  splinter.  Some  persons  were  supposed  to  possess  a 
sort  of  sympathetic  powder  with  which  they  could  cure  a  wound  by  merely 
anointing  the  weapon  which  inflicted  it. 


CANTO  III.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   ISIINSTREL.  61 

Full  long  she  toiled ;  for  she  did  rue 
Mishap  to  friend  so  stout  and  true. 

XXIV. 

So  passed  the  day  —  the  evening  fell,  305 

'Twas  near  the  time  of  curfew  bell; 

The  air  was  mild,  the  wind  was  calm, 

The  stream  was  smooth,  the  dew  was  balm ; 

E'en  the  rude  watchman,  on  the  tower. 

Enjoyed  and  blessed  the  lovely  hour.  310 

Far  more  fair  Margaret  loved  and  blessed 

The  hour  of  silence  and  of  rest. 

On  the  high  turret  sitting  lone, 

She  waked  at  times  the  lute's  soft  tone ; 

Touched  a  wild  note,  and  all  between  315 

Thought  of  the  bower  of  hawthorns  green ; 

Her  golden  hair  streamed  free  from  band, 

Her  fair  cheek  rested  on  her  hand, 

Her  blue  eyes  sought  the  west  afar. 

For  lovers  love  the  western  star.  320 

XXV. 

Is  yon  the  star,  o'er  Penchryst  Pen, 

That  rises  slowly  to  her  ken, 

And,  spreading  broad  its  wavering  light, 

Shakes  its  loose  tresses  on  the  night  ? 

Is  yon  red  glare  the  western  star  ?  —  325 

O,  'tis  the  beacon-blaze  of  war ! 

321.  Pen.    Hill. 

32(j.  Beacon.  Signal  fire,  giving  -warning  of  the  approach  of  an  enemy. 
Such  fires  formed  a  sort  of  telegraphic  communication  between  the  Border 
and  Edinburgh. 


62  LAY   OF   THE  LAST  MINSTREL.  canto  m. 

Scarce  could  she  draw  her  tightened  breath ; 
For  well  she  knew  the  fire  of  death ! 

XXVI. 

The  warder  viewed  it  blazing  strong, 

And  blew  his  war-note  loud  and  long,  330 

Till,  at  the  high  and  haughty  sound, 

Rock,  wood,  and  river,  rung  around. 

The  blast  alarmed  the  festal  hall. 

And  startled  forth  the  warriors  all : 

Far  downward,  in  the  castle-yard,  335 

Full  many  a  torch  and  cresset  glared ; 

And  helms  and  plumes,  confusedly  tossed, 

Were  in  the  blaze  half-seen,  half-lost; 

And  spears  in  wild  disorder  shook. 

Like  reeds  beside  a  frozen  brook.  340 

XXVII. 

The  Seneschal,  whose  silver  hair 

Was  reddened  by  the  torches'  glare, 

Stood  in  the  midst,  Avith  gesture  proud, 

And  issued  forth  his  mandates  loud.  — 

"  On  Penchryst  glows  a  bale  of  fire,  345 

And  three  are  kindling  on  Priestliaughswire ; 

Ride  out,  ride  out. 

The  foe  to  scout ! 
Mount,  mount  for  Branksome,  every  man ! 

329.  Warder.     Watchman. 

33(i.  Cresset.    A  sort  of  lantern  attached  to  a  pole. 
341.    Seneschal.    Principal  otiicer  of  the  houseliold. 
345.   Bale.     Eeacou;  one  fire  gave  warning  of  the  enemy,  two  that  they 
were  coming  indeed,  and  four  that  they  were  in  great  force. 
349.  Mount  for  Branksome.    The  gathering-cry  of  the  Scotts. 


CANTO  III.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST    MINSTREL.  63 

Thou,  Todrig,  warn  the  Johnstone  clan,  350 

That  ever  are  true  and  stout.  - — 
Ye  need  not  send  to  Liddesdale ; 
For,  when  they  see  the  blazing  bale, 
Elliots  and  Armstrongs  never  fail. — 
Ride,  Alton,  ride,  for  death  and  life,  355 

And  warn  the  warden  of  the  strife. 
Young  Gilbert,  let  our  beacon  blaze, 
Our  kin,  and  clan,  and  friends,  to  raise." 

XXVIII. 

Fair  Margaret,  from  the  turret  head. 

Heard,  far  below,  the  coursers'  tread,  soo 

While  loud  the  harness  rung, 
As  to  their  seats  with  clamor  dread. 

The  ready  horsemen  sprung  ; 
And  trampling  hoofs,  and  iron  cnats, 
And  leaders'  voices,  mingled  notes,  365 

And  out !    and  out  I 
In  hasty  route, 

The  horsemen  galloped  forth  ; 
Dispersing  to  the  south  to  scout, 

And  east,  and  west,  and  north,  370 

To  view  their  coming  enemies. 
And  warn  tlieir  vassals  and  allies. 

XXIX. 

The  ready  page,  with  hurried  hand. 
Awaked  the  need-fire's  slumbering  brand, 

And  ruddy  blushed  the  heaven  :  375 

For  a  sheet  of  flame,  from  the  turret  high, 

374.  Need-fire.    Bcaoou. 


(3-t  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  hi. 

Waved  like  a  blood-flag  on  the  sky, 

All  llarinu'  and  nneven, 
And  soon  a  score  of  fires,  I  ween, 
From  height,  and  hill,  and  cliff,  were  seen  ;  380 

Each  with  warlike  tidings  fraught : 
Each  from  each  the  signal  caught ; 
Each  after  each  they  glanced  to  sight. 
As  stars  arise  upon  the  night. 

They  gleamed  on  many  a  dusky  tarn,  385 

Haunted  by  the  lonely  earn; 
On  many  a  cairn's  gray  pyramid. 
Where  urns  of  mighty  chiefs  lie  hid  ; 
Till  high  Dunedin  the  blazes  saw. 
From  Soltra  and  Dumpender  Law  ;  six) 

And  Lothian  heard  the  Regent's  order, 
That  all  should  bowne  them  for  the  Border. 

XXX. 

The  livelong  night  in  Branksome  rang 

The  ceaseless  sound  of  steel ; 
Tlie  castle-bell,  with  backward  clang,  305 

Sent  forth  the  larum  peal ; 
Was  frequent  heard  the  heavy  jar, 
Where  massy  stone  and  iron  bar 
Were  piled  on  echoing  keep  and  tower, 

385.  Tarn.    Mountain  lake. 

386.  Earn.    Eagle. 

."87.  Cairn.    Pile  of  loose  stones,  often  found  on  the  summit  of  Scottish 
hills,  and  supposed  mostly  to  be  sepulchral  monuments. 

390.  Soltra  and  Dumpender  Law.    Two  hills. 

391.  Lothian.    The  division  of  Scotland  which  includes  Edinburgh. 
:v.y2.  Bowne.    Make  ready. 

31t'.».  Keep.    Uonjon,  the  strongest  part  of  an  old  castle. 


CANTO  III.  LAY    OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  65 

To  wlielm  the  foe  with  deadly  shower ;  400 

Was  fiequent  heard  the  changing  guard, 
And  watchword  from  the  sleepless  ward ; 
Wliile,  wearied  by  the  endless  din, 
Blood-hound  and  ban-dog  yelled  within. 

XXXI. 

The  noble  Dame,  amid  the  broil,  405 

Shared  the  gray  Seneschal's  high  toil, 

And  spoke  of  danger  with  a  smile ; 

Cheered  the  young  knights,  and  council  sage 

Held  with  the  chiefs  of  riper  age. 

No  tidings  of  the  foe  were  brought,  410 

Nor  of  his  numbers  knew  they  aught. 

Nor  in  what  time  the  truce  he  sought. 

Some  said,  that  there  were  thousands  ten, 
And  others  weened  that  it  was  naught 

But  Leven  Clans,  or  Tynedale  men,  415 

Who  came  to  gather  in  black-mail ; 
And  Liddesdale,  with  small  avail, 

Might  drive  them  lightly  back  agen. 
So  passed  the  anxious  night  away. 
And  welcome  was  the  peep  of  day.  420 


Ceased  the  high  sound  —  the  listening  throng 

Applaud  the  Master  of  the  Song ; 

And  marvel  much,  in  helpless  age, 

So  hard  should  be  his  pilgrimage. 

Had  he  no  friend  —  no  daughter  dear,  425 

415.  Leven  Clans,  or  Tynedale  men.  Borderers  on  a  pillaging  expedition. 

416.  Black-mail.     Protection  money  exacted  by  freebooters. 


66  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  caxto  m. 

Ilis  wandering  toil  to  share  and  clieer; 

No  son,  to  be  his  father's  stay, 

And  guide  him  on  tlie  rugged  way?  — 

"  Aye  !  once  he  had  —  but  he  was  dead  !  " 

Upon  the  harp  he  stooped  his  head,  430 

And  busied  himself  the  strings  withal, 

To  hide  the  tear,  that  fain  would  fall. 

In  solemn  measure,  soft  and  slow, 

Arose  a  father's  notes  of  woe. 


OUTLINE  OF  CANTO  FOURTH. 


This  canto  opens  with  the  musings  of  the  bard  upon  the  olden 
times,  and  the  changes  in  the  present.  Watt  Tinlinn  of  the  Liddel- 
side,  is  the  first  of  the  clan  to  arrive.  He  brings  news  that  the 
enemy  are  led  by  Lord  Howard  and  Lord  Dacre,  and  are  in  great 
force.  Then  follow  scouts  from  Liddesdale,  who  confirm  the  news. 
Then  come  the  Scotts  of  Eskdale ;  and  we  have  the  story  of  how 
the  Scotts  won  that  valley  from  Earl  Morton.  As  band  after  band 
of  vassels  and  allies  come  in,  the  Lady's  spirits  rise,  and  she  sends 
for  her  young  son  to  view  the  martial  array  and  know  his  father's 
friends.  But  the  elfin  page  knows  that  the  Lady  will  see  througli 
his  disguise,  and  so  shrieks  and  counterfeits  fear.  When  the  at- 
tendants tell  her  of  this  strange  behavior  in  one  who  was  "  wont  to 
be  so  free  and  bold,"  she  is  filled  with  shame,  and  bids  Watt  Tin- 
linn to  carry  the  boy  far  away  where  none  of  the  clan  shall  see  the 
cowardly  behavior  of  the  son  of  their  chief.  Wat  has  a  sorry  task, 
and  no  sooner  do  they  reach  a  running  stream  than  the  spell  is 
broken  and  the  urchin  assumes  his  goblin  shape  and  escapes. 

As  Tinlinn  returns,  he  sees  the  English  forces  in  martial  array 
issuing  from  the  wood,  and  coming  to  a  stand  before  Branksome 
Castle,  where  warlike  preparations  are  plainly  seen.  As  they  halt, 
the  hoary  seneschal  rides  forth  to  learn  their  purpose.  Howard 
asks  for  the  Lady's  presence  on  the  outer  wall,  when  their  purpose 
shall  be  shown.  When  she  appears,  the  boy  is  led  forth,  dressed 
in  Lord  Howard's  livery.  Howard  demands  that  she  shall  deliver 
to  him  William  of  Deloraine,  who  has  been  guilty  of  many  Border 
depredations,  and  also  of  the  death  of  one  of  the  Musgraves,  and 
shall  receive  into  her  castle  two  hundred  English  soldiers.  If  she 
does  not  agree  to  these  conditions,  he  will  straightway  storm  her 
castle  and  take  her  boy  to  Jhigland,  to  be  bred  up  as  a  page  to 
King  Edward.     Though  longing  to  reclaim  her  son,  the  Lady  will 


68  OUTLINE   OF   CANTO   FOURTH. 

not  yield  any  of  tlie  rights  of  her  castle  or  her  clan,  and  bids  defi- 
ance to  the  English,  at  the  same  time  proposing  that  the  matter  in 
dispute  should  be  settled  by  a  single  combat  between  Deloraine  and 
Richard  JNlusgrave.  This  the  English  soon  find  reason  to  accept, 
being  warned  by  a  friend  that  strong  bands  in  aid  of  Buccleuch 
are  gathering  in  their  rear.  The  lists  are  prepared,  and  in  case 
Deloraine  should  not  recover  from  his  wound  by  the  next  mornfiig, 
it  is  agreed  that  a  champion  should  fight  in  his  stead. 


I. 

Sweet  Teviot !  on  thy  silver  tide 

The  ghxring  bale-fires  blaze  no  more; 
No  longer  steel-clad  warriors  ride 

Along  thy  wild  and  willowed  shore : 
Where'er  thou  wind'st,  by  dale  or  hill,  5 

All,  all  is  peaceful,  all  is  still, 

As  if  thy  waves,  since  Time  was  born, 
•  Since  first  they  rolled  their  way  to  Tweed, 
Had  only  heard  the  shepherd's  reed, 

Nor  started  at  the  bugle-horn.  lo 

II. 

Unlike  the  tide  of  human  time, 

AVhich,  though  it  change  in  ceaseless  flow, 
Retains  each  grief,  retains  each  crime. 

Its  earliest  course  was  doomed  to  know. 
And,  darker  as  it  downward  bears,  i.-, 

Is  stained  with  past  and  present  tears. 

Low  as  that  tide  has  ebbed  with  me, 
It  still  reflects  to  memory's  eye 
The  hour,  my  brave,  my  only  boy. 

Fell  by  the  side  of  great  Dundee.  20 

Why,  when  the  volleying  musket  played 

20.   Dundee.    Johu  Graham,  Viscount  of  Dundee,  slain  in  the  battle  of 
Kiilicraukie. 


70  LAY    OF   THE    LAST    MINSTUEL.  canto  iv. 

Against  the  bloody  Highland  blade, 

Why  was  not  I  beside  him  laid !  — 

Enough  —  he  died  the  death  of  fame  ; 

Enough — he  died  with  conquering  Graeme.  25 

III.  ^ 

Now,  over  Border  dale  and  fell. 

Full  wide  and  far  was  terror  spread ; 

For  pathless  march,  and  mountain  cell. 
The  peasant  left  his  lowly  shed. 

The  frightened  flocks  and  herds  were  pent  i» 

Beneath  the  peel's  rude  battlement ; 

And  maids  and  matrons  dropped  the  tear, 

While  ready  warriors  seized  the  spear. 

From  Branksome's  towers,  the  watchman's  eye 

Dun  wreaths  of  distant  smoke  can  spy,  3g 

Which,  curling  in  the  rising  sun. 

Showed  southern  ravage  was  begun. 

IV. 

Now  loud  the  heedful  gate-ward  cried  — 
"  Prepare  ye  all  for  blows  and  blood ! 

Watt  Tinlinn,  from  the  Liddel-side,  40 

Comes  wading  through  the  flood. 

Full  oft  the  Tynedale  snatchers  knock 

At  his  lone  gate,  and  prove  the  lock; 

It  was  but  last  St.  Barnabright 

They  sieged  him  a  whole  summer  night,  45 

25.   Graeme.     An  abbreviation  of  Graham. 

40.   Liddel-side.     Watt  Tinlinn  vva.s  a  retainer  of  the  Buccleuch  family, 
who  held  for  his  .service  a  small  tower  on  the  frontier  of  Liddesdale. 
42.  Tynedale  snatchers.    A  class  of  Border  robbers. 


CANTO  IV.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTKEL.  •  71 

But  fled  at  morning ;  well  they  knew, 

In  vain  he  never  twanged  the  yew. 

Right  sharp  has  been  the  evening  shower, 

That  drove  him  from  his  Liddel  tower ; 

And  by  my  faith,"  the  gate-ward  said,  50 

"  I  think  'twill  prove  a  Warden-Raid." 

V. 

While  thus  he  spoke,  the  bold  yeoman 

Entered  the  echoing  barbican. 

He  led  a  small  and  shaggy  nag. 

That  through  a  bog,  from  hag  to  hag,  55 

Could  bound  like  any  Billhope  stag : 

It  bore  his  wife  and  children  twain  ; 

A  half-clothed  serf  was  all  their  train  : 

His  wife,  stout,  ruddy,  and  dark-browed. 

Of  silver  brooch  and  bracelet  proud,  go 

Laughed  to  her  friends  among  the  crowd. 

He  was  of  stature  passing  tall, 

But  sparely  formed,  and  lean  withal : 

A  battered  morion  on  his  brow ; 

A  leathern  jack,  as  fence  enow,  65 

On  his  broad  shoulders  loosely  hung; 

A  border-axe  behind  was  slung; 

His  spear,  six  Scottish  ells  in  length. 
Seemed  newly  dyed  with  gore ; 

47.  Twanged  the  yew.    Fired  his  bow  made  of  yew. 

51.   Warden-Eaid.    An  inroad  commanded  by  the  warden  iu  person. 

53.   Barbican.    Tower  at  the  entrance  of  a  fortification. 

55.  Hag  to  hag.    Broken  ground  in  a  bog. 

56.  Billhope.     A  place  in  Liddesdale,  famous  among  hunters  for  buck 
and  roes. 

58.   Serf.     Bondman. 
64.  Morion.    Steel  cap. 


72  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  caxto  iv. 

His  shafts  and  bow,  of  wondrous  strength,         70 
His  hardy  partner  bore. 

vr. 

Thus  to  the  Ladye  did  Tinlinn  show 

The  tidings  of  the  English  foe  :  — 

"  Belted  Will  Howard  is  marching  here, 

And  hot  Lord  Dacre,  with  man}^  a  spear,  75 

And  all  the  German  hackbiit-men, 

Who  have  long  lain  at  Askertain : 

They  crossed  the  Liddel  at  curfew  hour, 

And  burned  my  little  lonely  tower ; 

The  fiend  receive  their  souls  therefor !  80 

It  had  not  been  burned  this  year  and  more. 

Barn-yard  and  dwelling,  blazing  bright, 

Served  to  guide  me  on  ni}^  flight ; 

But  I  was  chased  the  livelong  night. 

Black  John  of  Akeshaw,  and  Fergus  Grseme,         85 

Fast  upon  my  traces  came, 

Until  I  turned  at  Priesthaugh-Scrogg, 

And  shot  their  horses  in  the  bog. 

Slew  Fergus  with  my  lance  outright  — 

I  had  him  long  at  high  despite  :  90 

He  drove  my  cows  last  Fastern's  night." 

VIL 

Now  weary  scouts  from  Liddesdale, 
Fast  huri'5nng  in,  confirmed  the  tale ; 

74.  Belted  Will  Howard.  Lord  Vv'illiam  Howard,  third  son  of  the  Duke 
of  Norfolk,  iiiKl  w  anU'U  of  the  West  Marches.  •• 

76.   Hackbut-men.     German  musketeers. 

91.  Drove  my  cows.  Stole  his  herds.  —  Fastern  night.  The  ni^lit  be- 
fore Luut. 


CANTO  IV.  LAY   OF  THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  73 

As  far  as  tliey  could  judge  by  ken, 

Three  hours  would  bring  to  Teviot's  strand  93 
Three  thousand  armed  Englishmen.  — 
Meanwhile,  full  many  a  warlike  band, 
From  Teviot,  Aill,  and  Ettrick  shade, 
Came  in,  their  Chiefs  defence  to  aid. 

There  was  saddling  and  mounting  in  haste,       ^^^ 

There  was  pricking  o'er  moor  and  lea ; 
He  that  was  last  at  the  trysting-place, 
Was  but  lightly  held  of  his  gay  ladye. 

VIII. 

From  fair  St.  jNIary's  silver  wave, 

From  dreary  Gamescleuch's  dusky  height,         1^5 
His  ready  lances  Thirlestane  brave 

Arrayed  beneath  a  banner  bright. 
The  treasured  fleur-de-luce  he  claims 
To  wreath  his  shield,  since  royal  James, 
Encamped  b}^  Fala's  mossy  wave,  no 

The  proud  distinction  grateful  gave, 

For  faith  'mid  feudal  jars ; 
What  time,  save  Thirlestane  alone, 
Of  Scotland's  stubborn  barons  none 

Would  march  to  southern  wars;  115 

And  hence,  in  fair  remembrance  worn, 

100.  There  was  saddling,  etc.  These  lines,  ending  with  103,  are  not  in 
the  first  edition.    They  are  iu  that  of  1813,  and  also  in  later  ones. 

10(5.  Thirlestane.  When  James  had  assembled  his  nobihty  at  Fala,  in 
the  south  of  Scothuid,  to  invade  England,  and  was  disappointed  at  their 
r^isal  to  follow  him,  Sir  John  Scott  of  Thirlestane  alone  declared  himself 
ready  to  folU)w  the  king  wherever  he  should'  lead.  In  gratitude  for  this, 
James  granted  his  family  a  charter  of  arms,  a  border  of  flear-de-luce  with 
a  bundle  of  spears  for  a  crest,  and  the  motto,  "  Ready,  aye  ready." 


74  LAY  OF   THE   LAST   MINSTKEL.  canto  iv. 

Yon  sheaf  of  spears  his  crest  has  borne : 
Hence  his  liigh  motto  shines  revealed,  — 
"  Ready,  aye  ready,"  for  the  field. 

IX. 

An  aged  knight,  to  danger  steeled,  120 

With  many  a  moss-trooper,  came  on : 
And  azure  in  a  golden  field, 
The  stars  and  crescent  graced  his  shield, 

Without  the  bend  of  Murdieston. 
Wide  lay  his  lands  round  Oakwood-tower,  125 

And  wide  round  haunted  Castle-Ovver ; 
High  over  Borthwick's  mountain  flood, 
His  wood-embosomed  mansion  stood  ; 
In  the  dark  glen,  so  deep  below, 

The  herds  of  plundered  England  low  ;  130 

His  bold  retainers'  daily  food, 
And  bought  witli  danger,  blows,  and  blood. 
Marauding  chief!  his  sole  delight 
The  moonlight  raid,  the  mornino-  ficrht ; 
Not  even  the  Flower  of  Yarrow's  charms,  135 

In  youth,  might  tame  his  rage  for  arms; 
And  still,  in  age,  he  spurned  at  rest, 
And  still  his  brows  the  helmet  pressed. 
Albeit  the  blanched  locks  below 
Were  white  as  Dinlay's  spotless  snow:  140 

Five  stately  warriors  drew  the  sword 
Before  their  father's  band ; 

124.  Murdieston.  Walter  Scott  of  Ilnnlen,  descendant  of  a  younger 
branch  of  the  lUiccleiich  family,  before  they  acquired  the  estate  of  Murdies- 
ton.   He  was  a  renowned  Border  freebooter. 

135.  Flower  of  Yarrow.    Mary,  wife  of  Walter  Scott  of  Harden. 


CANTO  IV.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST    MINSTREL.  75 

A  braver  knight  than  Harclen's  lord 
Ne'er  belted  on  a  brand. 


X. 

Scotts  of  Eskdale,  a  stalwart  band,  145 

Came  trooping  down  the  Todshawhill; 
By  the  sword  they  won  their  land, 

And  by  their  sword  they  hold  it  still. 
Hearken,  Ladye,  to  the  tale, 

How  thy  sires  won  fair  Eksdale. —  150 

Earl  Morton  was  lord  of  that  valley  fair, 
The  Beattisons  were  his  vassals  there. 
The  Earl  was  gentle,  and  mild  of  mood. 
The  vassals  were  warlike,  and  fierce,  and  rude ; 
High  of  heart,  and  haughty  of  word,  155 

Little  they  reck'd  of  a  tame  liege  lord. 
The  Earl  into  fair  Eskdale  came, 
Homage  and  seignory  to  claim  : 
Of  Gilbert  the  Galliard  a  heriot  he  sought. 
Saying,  "  Give  thy  best  steed,  as  a  vassal  ought."    ^^ 
—  "  Dear  to  me  is  my  bonny  white  steed. 
Oft  has  he  help'd  me  at  pinch  of  need ; 
Lord  and  Earl  though  thou  be,  I  trow, 
I  can  rein  Bucksfoot  better  than  thou."  — 
Word  on  word  gave  fuel  to  fire,  105 

Till  so  biglily  blazed  the  Beattison's  ire, 
But  that  the  Earl  the  flight  had  ta'en, 

158.  Seignory.  The  right  which  a  feudal  superior  has  in  the  property 
of  his  teuants. 

150.  Galliard.  Gay  young  man.  —  Heriot.  Tlie  feudal  superior  in  cer- 
tain cases  was  entitled  to  the  best  horse  of  the  vassal,  in  the  name  of 
Heriot. 


TG  LAY   OF   THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  iv. 

The  vassals  there  their  lord  had  shain. 

Sore  he  plied  both  whip  and  spur, 

As  he  urged  his  steed  through  Eksdale  muir ;  170 

And  it  fell  down  a  weary  weight, 

Just  on  the  threshold  of  Branksonie  gate. 


XI. 

The  Earl  was  a  wrathful  man  to  see, 

Full  fain  avenged  would  he  be. 

In  haste  to  Branksome's  lord  he  spoke,  175 

Saying  —  "  Take  these  traitors  to  thy  yoke  ; 

For  a  cast  of  hawks,  and  a  purse  of  gold. 

All  Eskdale  I'll  sell  thee,  to  have  and  to  hold : 

Beshrew  thy  heart,  of  the  Beattisons'  clan 

If  thou  leavest  on  Eske  a  landed  man  ;  I80 

But  spare  Woodkerrick's  lands  alone. 

For  he  lent  me  liis  horse  to  escape  upon." 

A  glad  man  then  was  Branksome  bold, 

Down  he  Hung  him  the  purse  of  gold ; 

To  Eskdale  soon  he  spurr'd  amain,  185 

And  with  him  five  hundred  riders  has  ta'en. 

He  left  his  merrymen  in  the  midst  of  the  hill, 

And  bade  them  hold  them  close  and  still; 

And  alone  he  wended  to  the  plain. 

To  meet  with  the  Galliard  and  all  his  train.  190 

To  Gilbert  the  Galliard  thus  he  said :  — 

"  Know  thou  me  for  thy  liege-lord  and  head  ; 

Deal  not  with  me  as  with  Morton  tame, 

For  Scotts  play  best  at  the  roughest  game. 

Give  me  in  peace  my  heriot  due,  195 

Tliy  bonny  white  steed,  or  thou  shalt  rue. 


CANTO  IV.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTUEL.  77 

If  my  horn  I  three  times  wind, 

Eskdale  shall  long  have  the  sound  in  mind." 

XIL 

Loudly  the  Beattison  laughed  in  scorn ; 
"Little  care  we  for  thy  winded  horn.  200 

Ne'er  shall  it  be  the  Galliard's  lot, 
To  yield  his  steed  to  a  haughty  Scott. 
Wend  thou  to  Branksome  hixxik  on  foot. 
With  rusty  spur  and  miry  boot."  — 
He  blew  his  bugle  so  loud  and  hoarse,  205 

That  the  dun  deer  started  at  fair  Craikcross ; 
He  blew  again  so  loud  and  clear, 
Through  the  gray  mountain-mist  there  did  lances  ap- 
pear ; 
And  the  third  blast  rang  with  such  a  din. 
That  the  echoes  answered  from  Pentoun-linn,  210 

And  all  his  riders  came  lightly  in. 
Then  had  you  seen  a  gallant  shock, 
When  saddles  were  emptied,  and  lances  broke. 
For  each  scornful  word  the  Galliard  had  said 
A  Beattison  on  the  field  was  laid.  215 

His  own  good  sword  the  chieftain  drew. 
And  he  bore  the  Galliard  through  and  through; 
Where  the  Beattisons'  blood  mixed  with  the  rill, 
The  Galliard's-Haugh  men  call  it  still. 
The  Scotts  have  scatter'd  the  Beattison  clan,  220 

In  Eskdale  they  left  but  one  landed  man. 
The  valley  of  Eske,  from  the  mouth  to  the  source, 
Was  lost  and  won  for  that  bonny  white  horse. 


78  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  iv. 

XIII. 

Whitslacle  the  Hawk,  and  Headsliaw  came, 

And  warriors  more  than  I  may  name ;  225 

From  Yarrow-cleuch  to  Hindhaugh-swair, 

From  Woodhouselie  to  Chester-glen, 
Trooped  man  and  horse,  and  bow  and  spear ; 

Their  gathering  word  was  Bellenden. 
And  better  hearts  o'er  Border  sod  230 

To  siege  or  rescue  never  rode. 

The  Ladye  marked  the  aids  come  in, 
And  high  her  heart  of  pride  arose  ; 

Slie  bade  her  youthful  son  attend. 

That  he  might  know  his  father's  friend,  2.35 

And  learn  to  face  his  foes. 

"  The  boy  is  ripe  to  look  on  war  ; 
I  saw  him  draw  a  cross-bow  stiff, 

And  his  true  arrow  struck  afar 

The  raven's  nest  upon  the  cliff;  240 

The  Red  Cross,  on  a  southern  breast, 
Is  broader  than  the  raven's  nest : 
Thou,Whitslade,  shalt  teach  him  his  weapon  to  wield, 
And  o'er  him  hold  his  father's  shield." 

XIV, 

Well  may  you  think,  the  wily  Page  245 

Cared  not  to  face  the  Ladye  sage. 

He  counterfeited  childish  fear. 

And  shrieked,  and  shed  full  many  a  tear, 

220.  Bellenden.  Bellenden  is  situated  near  the  head  of  Bortwick  water, 
nearly  in  the  centre  of  the  possessions  of  tlie  Scotts,  and  hence  was  fre- 
quently used  as  their  place  of  rendezvous  and  their  gathering  word. 


CANTO  IV.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST    MINSTREL.  79 

And  moaned  and  plained  in  manner  wild. 

The  attendants  to  the  Ladye  told,  250 

Some  fairy,  sure,  had  changed  the  child, 
That  wont  to  be  so  free  and  bold. 
Then  wrathful  was  the  noble  dame; 
She  blushed  blood-red  for  verj^  shame  :  — 
"Hence!  ere  the  clan  his  faintness  view;  255 

Hence  with  the  weakling  to  Buccleuch  !  — 
Watt  Tinlinn,  thou  shalt  be  his  guide 
To  Rangleburn's  lonely  side.  — 
Sure  some  fell  fiend  has  cursed  our  line. 
That  coward  should  e'er  be  son  of  mine  !  "  2G0 

XV. 

A  heavy  task  Watt  Tinlinn  had, 

To  guide  the  counterfeited  lad. 

Soon  as  his  palfrey  felt  the  weight 

Of  that  ill-omened  elvish  freight. 

He  bolted,  sprung,  and  reared  amain,  265 

Nor  heeded  bit,  nor  curb,  nor  rein. 

It  cost  Watt  Tinlinn  mickle  toil 

To  drive  him  but  a  Scottish  mile ; 

But,  as  a  shallow  brook  they  crossed. 
The  elf,  amid  the  running  stream,  270 

His  figure  changed,  like  form  in  dream. 

And  fled,  and  shouted,  "Lost !  lost !  lost !  " 
Full  fast  the  urchin  ran  and  laughed. 
But  faster  still  a  cloth-yard  shaft 
Whistled  from  startled  Tinlinn's  yew,  275 

And  pierced  his  shoulder  through  and  through. 

267.   Mickle,     Much. 


80  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  iv. 

Although  the  imp  might  not  be  skiin, 

And  though  the  wound  soon  healed  again, 

Yet,  as  he  ran,  he  yelled  for  pain ; 

And  Watt  of  Tinlinn,  mucli  aghast,  280 

Rode  back  to  Branksome  fiery  fast. 

XV  r. 

Soon  on  the  hill's  steep  verge  he  stood. 

That  looks  o'er  Branksome's  towers  and  wood ; 

And  martial  murmurs,  from  below. 

Proclaimed  the  approaching  southern  foe.  285 

Through  the  dark  wood,  in  mingled  tone. 

Were  border-pipes  and  bugles  blown  ; 

The  coursers'  neighing  he  could  ken. 

And  measured  tread  of  marching  men  ; 

While  broke  at  times  the  solemn  hum,  290 

The  Almayn's  sullen  kettle-drum  ; 

And  banners  tall,  of  crimson  sheen. 
Above  the  copse  appear  ; 

And,  glistening  through  the  hawthorns  green, 
Shine  helm,  and  shield,  and  spear.  295 

XVII. 

Light  forayers  first,  to  view  the  ground. 
Spurred  their  fleet  coursers  loosely  round. 
Beliind,  in  close  array  and  fast. 

The  Kendal  archers,  all  in  green. 
Obedient  to  the  bugle  blast,  300 

Advancing  from  the  wood  are  seen. 
To  back  and  guard  the  archer  band, 

291.  Almayn.    German. 


CANTO  IV.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  81 

Lord  Dacre's  bill-men  were  at  hand ; 
A  hardy  race,  on  Irthing  bred, 
With  kirtles  white,  and  crosses  red,  305 

Arrayed  beneath  the  banner  tall 
That  streamed  o'er  Acre's  conquered  wall ; 
And  minstrels,  as  they  marched  in  order. 
Played,    "  Noble   Lord   Dacre,    he   dwells   on   the 
Border." 

XVIII. 

Behind  the  English  bill  and  bow,  310 

The  mercenaries,  firm  and  slow. 

Moved  on  to  fight,  in  dark  array, 
By  Conrad  led  of  Wolfenstein, 
Who  brought  the  band  from  distant  Rhine, 

And  sold  their  blood  for  foreign  pay.  315 

The  camp  their  home,  their  law  the  sword, 
They  knew  no  country,  owned  no  lord. 
They  were  not  armed  like  England's  sons, 
But  bore  the  leven-darting  guns  ; 
Buff-coats,  all  frounced  and  'broidered  o'er,  320 

And  morsing-horns  and  scarfs  they  wore : 
Each  better  knee  was  bared,  to  aid 
The  warriors  in  the  escalade  ; 


303.  Bill.    Battle-axe  fixed  on  a  pole. 

304.  Irthing.    A  river  in  Cumberland,  England. 

307.  Acre's  conquered  wall.    The  family  of  Dacre  derive  their  name 
from  the  exploits  of  one  of  their  ancestors  at  the  siege  of  Acre. 

311.  Mercenaries.    Foreign  troops  whose  services  are  bought. 

319.  Leven.    Lightning. 

321.  Morsing-horns.     Powder  flasks. 

322.  Better  knee.    Right  knee. 

323.  Escalade.     Scaling  the  walls. 


82  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  iv. 

All,  as  they  marched,  in  rugged  tongue, 

Songs  of  Teutonic  feuds  they  sung.  325 

XIX. 

But  louder  still  the  clamor  grew, 

And  louder  still  the  minstrels  blew, 

When,  from  beneath  the  greenwood  tree, 

Rode  forth  Lord  Howard's  chivalry ; 

His  men-at-arms,  with  glaive  and  spear,  330 

Brought  up  the  battle's  glittering  rear. 

There  many  a  youthful  knight,  full  keen 

To  gain  his  spurs,  in  arms  were  seen ; 

With  favor  in  his  crest,  or  .glove, 

Memorial  of  his  ladye-love.  335 

So  rode  they  forth  in  fair  arra)% 

Till  full  their  lengthened  lines  display ; 

Then  called  a  halt,  and  made  a  stand. 

And  cried,  "  St.  George,  for  merry  England ! " 

XX. 

Now  every  English  eye,  intent,  340 

On  Branksome's  armed  towers  was  bent : 

So  near  they  were,  that  they  might  know 

The  straining  harsh  of  each  cross-bow ; 

On  battlement  and  bartizan 

Gleamed  axe,  and  spear,  and  partisan :  345 

Falcon  and  culver,  on  each  tower, 

330.  Glaive.    Broadsword. 

333.    To  gain  Ms  spurs.    To  win  the  order  of  knighthood. 

344.  Bartizan.     A  sin;ill  overhanging  turret. 

345.  Partisan.     .\  kind  of  liall)erd  or  long-handled  battle-axe. 

346.  Falcon  and  culver.     Ancient  pieces  of  artillery. 


CANTO  IV.  LAY   OF  THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  83 

Stood  prompt  their  deadly  bail  to  shower ; 

And  flashing  armor  frequent  broke 

From  eddying  whirls  of  sable  smoke 

Where,  upon  tower  and  turret  head,  350 

The  seething  pitch  and  molten  lead 

Reeked,  like  a  witch's  cauldron  red. 

While  yet  they  gaze,  the  bridges  fall, 

The  wicket  opes,  and  from  the  wall 

Rides  forth  the  hoary  Seneschal.  2r,o 

XXI. 

Armed  he  rode,  all  save  the  head. 

His  white  beard  o'er  his  breastplate  spread ; 

Unbroke  by  age,  erect  his  seat, 

He  ruled  his  eager  courser's  gait ; 

(Forced  him,  with  chastened  fire,  to  prance,  350 

And,  high  curvetting,  slow  advance :  . 
In  sign  of  truce,  his  better  hand 
Displayed  a  peeled  willow-wand ; 
His  squire,  attending  in  the  rear, 
Bore  high  a  gauntlet  on  a  spear.  3C.5 

When  they  espied  him  riding  out, 
Lord  HoAvard  and  Lord  Dacre  stout 
Sped  to  the  front  of  their  array. 
To  hear  what  this  old  knight  should  say, 

XXII.  ^ 

"  Ye  English  warden  lords,  of  you  370 

Demands  the  Ladye  of  Buccleuch, 

351 .  Seething  pitch  and  molten  lead.  For  pouring  on  the  heads  of  the 
assailants. 

3fi5.  A  gauntlet  on  a  spear.  The  emblem  of  faith  among  the  ancient 
Borderers. 


84  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  iv. 

Why,  'gainst  the  truce  of  Border-tide, 

In  hostile  guise  ye  dare  to  ride, 

With  Kendal  bow,  and  Gilsland  brand, 

And  all  your  mercenary  band,  375 

Upon  the  bounds  of  fair  Scotland? 

My  Ladye  reads  you  swith  return ; 

And,  if  but  one  poor  straw  you  burn, 

Or  do  our  towers  so  much  molest, 

As  scare  one  swallow  from  her  nest,  380 

St.  Mary  !  but  we'll  light  a  brand, 

Shall  warm  your  hearths  in  Cumberland." 

xxrii. 
A  wrathful  man  was  Dacre's  lord. 
But  calmer  Howard  took  the  word:  — 
"  May't  please  thy  Dame,  Sir  Seneschal,  385 

To  seek  the  castle's  outward  wall ; 
Our  pursuivant-at-arms  shall  show, 
Both  why  we  came,  and  when  we  go." 
The  message  sped,  the  noble  Dame 
To  the  wall's  outward  circle  came ;  3D0 

Each  chief  around  leaned  on  his  spear, 
To  see  the  pursuivant  appear. 
All  in  Lord  Howard's  livery  dressed, 
"  The  lion  argent  decked  his  breast; 
He  led  a  boy  of  blooming  hue  —  395 

i         O  sisrht  to  meet  a  mother's  view ! 
It  was  the  heir  of  great  Buccleuch. 

374.  Gilsland.    A  part  of  Cumberland. 

377.  Swith.     Quickly. 

387.  Pursuivant-at-arms.     An  attondaiit  on  tlie  heralds. 

3yi.  The  lion  argent.    The  badge  of  the  Howards. 


CANTO  IV.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  85 

Obeisance  meet  the  herald  made, 
And  thus  his  master's  will  he  said. 

XXIV. 

"  It  irks,  high  Dame,  m j  noble  Lords,  400 

'Gainst  ladye  fair  to  draw  their  swords ; 
But  yet  they  may  not  tamely  see, 
All  through  the  western  wardenry. 
Your  law-contemning  kinsmen  ride, 
And  burn  and  spoil  the  Border-side ;  405 

And  ill  beseems  your  rank  and  birth 
To  make  your  towers  a  flemens-firth. 
We  claim  from  thee,  William  of  Deloraine, 
That  he  may  suffer  march-treason  pain  ; 
It  was  but  last  St.  Cuthbert's  even  410 

He  pricked  to  Stapleton  on  Leven, 
Harried  the  lands  of  Richard  Musgrave, 
And  slew  his  brother  by  dint  of  glaive. 
Then,  since  a  lone  and  widowed  Dame 
These  restless  riders  may  not  tame,  415 

Either  receive  within  thy  towers 
Two  hundred  of  my  master's  powers, 
Or  straight  they  sound  their  warrison, 
And  storm  and  spoil  thy  garrison ; 
And  this  fair  boy,  to  London  led,  420 

Shall  good  King  Edward's  page  be  bred." 


407.  Flemens-firth.     Asylum  for  outlaws. 

iO'J.  March-treason.  The  name  given  to  various  infringements  of 
Border  law:  among  others,  making  hostile  incursions  across  the  Border  in 
time  of  peace. 

412.   Harried.    Plundered. 

418.  Warrison.    Note  of  assault. 


8(J  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MlNSTliEL.  canto  iv. 

XXV. 

He  ceased  —  and  loud  the  boy  did  cry, 

And  stretched  his  little  arms  on  high ; 

Implored  for  aid  each  well-known  face, 

And  strove  to  seek  the  Dame's  embrace.  425 

A  moment  changed  that  Ladye's  cheer, 

Gushed  to  her  eye  the  unbidden  tear; 

She  gazed  upon  the  leaders  round, 

And  dark  and  sad  each  warrior  frowned; 

Then,  deep  within  her  sobbing  breast  430 

She  locked  the  struggling  sigh  to  rest ; 

Unaltered  and  collected  stood. 

And  thus  replied,  in  dauntless  mood. 

XXVI. 

"  Say  to  your  Lords  of  high  emprize. 
Who  war  on  woman  and  on  boys,  435 

That  either  William  of  Deloraine 
Will  cleanse  him,  by  oath,  of  march-treason  stain, 
Or  else  he  will  the  combat  take 
'Gainst  Musgrave,  for  his  lionor's  sake. 
No  knight  in  Cumberland  so  good,  440 

But  William  may  count  with  him  kin  and  blood. 
Knighthood  he  took  of  Douglas'  sword, 
AVhen  English  blood  swelled  Ancram  ford; 

434.  Emprize.    Enterprise. 

437.  By  oath.  In  doubtful  cases  the  innocence  of  Border  criminals  was 
occasionally  referred  to  their  own  oatli. 

442.  Knighthood  he  took,  etc.  The  dignity  ot  knighthood  could  be 
conferred  by  one  who  himself  possessed  it,  upon  any  squire  who  was  found 
to  merit  the  honor  fif  chivalry. 

443.  Ancram  ford.  A  battle  in  which  the  Scotch  defeated  the  English 
in  1544. 


CANTO  IV.  LAY    OF   THE   LAST   MINSTUEL.  87 

And  but  that  Lord  Dacre's  steed  was  wight, 

And  bare  him  ably  in  the  flight,  445 

Himself  had  seen  him  dubbed  a  knight. 

For  the  young  heir  of  Branksome's  line, 

God  be  his  aid,  and  God  be  mine ; 

Through  me  no  friend  shall  meet  his  doom ; 

Here  while  I  live,  no  foe  finds  room.  450 

Then,  if  thy  Lords  their  purpose  urge, 
Take  our  defiance  loud  and  high; 

Our  slogan  is  their  lyke-wake  dirge. 

Our  moat,  the  grave  where  they  shall  lie." 

XXVII. 

Proud  she  looked  round,  applause  to  claim — -      455 
Then  lightened  Thirlestane's  eye  of  flame ; 

His  bugle  Watt  of  Harden  blew  ; 
Pensils  and  pennons  wide  were  flung. 
To  heaven  the  Border  slogan  rung, 

"  St.  Mary  for  the  young  Buccleuch!  "  4go 

The  English  war-cry  answered  wide. 

And  forward  bent  each  southern  spear; 
Each  Kendal  archer  made  a  stride. 

And  drew  the  bow-string  to  his  ear  : 
Each  minstrel's  war-note  loud  was  blown ;  4C5 

But,  ere  a  gray-goose  shaft  had  flown, 

A  horseman  galloped  from  the  rear. 

444.  Wight.     Fleet. 

453.  Lyke-wake  dirge.    Dirge  sung  while  watching  a  corpse. 
458.   Pensils.     Little  streamers,  shaped  like  swallow-tails,  attached  to 
the  lance  of  a  knight. 


88  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  iv. 

XXVIIL 

"  Ah !  noble  Lords !  "  he,  breathless,  said, 

"  What  treason  has  your  march  betrayed  ? 

What  make  you  here,  from  aid  so  far,  470 

Before  you  walls,  around  you  war  ? 

Your  foemen  triumph  in  the  thought, 

That  in  the  toils  the  lion's  caught. 

Already  on  dark  Ruberslaw 

The  Douglas  holds  his  weapon-schaw :  475 

The  lances,  waving  in  his  train, 

Clothe  the  dun  heath  like  autumn  grain. 

And  on  the  Liddel's  northern  strand, 

To  bar  retreat  to  Cumberland, 

Lord  Maxwell  ranks  his  merry-men  good,  430 

Beneath  the  eagle  and  the  rood ; 

And  Jedwood,  Eske,  and  Teviotdale, 
Have  to  proud  Angus  come  ; 

And  all  the  Merse  and  Lauderdale 

Have  risen  with  haughty  Home.  485 

An  exile  from  Northumberland, 

In  Liddesdale  I've  wandered  longr; 
But  still  my  heart  was  with  merry  England, 

And  cannot  brook  ni}^  country's  wrong, 
And  hard  I've  spurred  all  night  to  show  490 

The  mustering  of  the  coming  foe." 

XXIX. 

"And  let  them  come  ! "  fierce  Dacre  cried  ; 
"  For  soon  yon  crest,  my  fiither's  pride, 

474.  Euberslaw.    A  mountain  in  Scotland,  about  half  way  between 
Branksonie  Castle  ami  Melrose  Abbey. 

475.  Weapon-schaw.    The  military  array  of  a  country,  literally  a  show- 
ing of  weapons. 


CANTO  IV.  LAY    OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  89 

That  swept  the  shores  of  Juclah's  sea, 

And  waved  in  gales  of  Galilee,  495 

From  Branksome's  highest  towers  displayed. 

Shall  mock  the  rescue's  lingering  aid  !  — 

Level  each  harqiiebnss  on  row ; 

Draw,  merry  archers,  draw  the  bow ; 

Up,  bill-men,  to  the  walls,  and  cry,  coo 

Dacre  for  England,  win  or  die  !  " 


XXX. 


"  Yet  hear,"  quoth  Howard,  "  calmly  hear, 

Nor  deem  my  words  the  words  of  fear : 

For  who  in  field  or  foray  slack 

Saw  the  blanche  lion  e'er  fall  back?  505 

But  thus  to  risk  our  Border  flower 

In  strife  against  a  kingdom's  power. 

Ten  thousand  Scots  'gainst  thousands  three, 

Certes.were  desperate  policy. 

Nay,  take  the  terras  the  Ladye  made,  510 

Ere  conscious  of  the  advancing  aid : 

Let  Mussrrave  meet  fierce  Deloraine 

In  single  fight ;  and  if  he  gain, 

He  gains  for  us ;  but  if  he's  crossed, 

'Tis  but  a  single  warrior  lost :  515 

The  rest,  retreating  as  they  came. 

Avoid  defeat,  and  death,  and  shame." 

XXXI. 


Ill  could  the  haughty  Dacre  brook 
His  brother-warden's  sage  rebuke ; 

505.  Blanclie  lion.    The  cognizance  of  tlie  Howards. 


90  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTKEL.  canto  iv. 

And  yet  his  forward  step  he  staid,  520 

And  slow  and  sullenly  obeyed: 

But  ne'er  again  the  Border  side 

Did  these  two  lords  in  friendship  ride ; 

And  tliis  slight  discontent,  men  say, 

Cost  blood  upon  another  day.  5^5 

XXXII. 

The  pursuivant-at-arms  again 

Before  the  castle  took  his  stand; 
His  trumpet  called,  with  parleying  strain. 

The  leaders  of  the  Scottish  band ; 
And  he  defied,  in  Musgrave's  right,  cno 

Stout  Deloraine  to  sincjle  fipfht: 
A  gauntlet  at  their  feet  he  laid. 
And  thus  the  terms  of  fight  he  said  :  — 
"  If  in  the  lists  good  Musgrave's  sword 

Vanquish  the  knight  of  Deloraine,  535 

Your  youthful  chieftain,  Branksome's  lord. 

Shall  hostage  for  his  clan  remain : 
If  Deloraine  foil  good  Musgrave, 
The  boy  his  liberty  shall  have. 

Howe'er  it  falls,  the  English  band,  540 

Unharming  Scots,  by  Scots  unharmed. 
In  peaceful  march  like  men  unarmed. 

Shall  straight  retreat  to  Cumberland." 

XXXIIL    , 

Unconscious  of  the  near  relief, 

The  proffer  pleased  each  Scottish  chief,  545 

Though  much  the  Ladye  sage  gainsayed ; 
For  though  their  hearts  were  brave  and  true. 


CANTO  IV.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  91 

From  Jed  wood's  recent  sack  they  knew 

How  tardy  was  the  Regent's  aid ; 
And  you  may  guess  the  noble  Dame  550 

Durst  not  the  secret  prescience  own, 
Sprung  from  the  art  she  might  not  name, 

By  which  the  comimg  help  was  known. 
Closed  was  the  compact,  and  agreed 
That  lists  should  be  inclosed  with  speed  555 

Beneath  the  castle  on  a  lawn : 
They  fixed  the  morrow  for  the  strife, 
On  foot,  with  Scottish  axe  and  knife. 

At  the  fourth  hour  from  peep  of  dawn ; 
When  Deloraine,  from  sickness  freed,  56o 

Or  else  a  champion  in  his  stead. 
Should  for  himself  and  chieftain  stand. 
Against  stout  Musgrave,  hand  to  hand. 

ft 

XXXIV. 

I  know  right  well,  that,  in  their  lay, 

Full  many  minstrels  sing  and  say,  555 

Such  combat  should  be  made  on  horse, 
On  foaming  steed,  in  full  career. 
With  brand  to  aid,  when  as  the  spear 

Should  shiver  in  the  course  : 
But  he,  the  jovial  Harper  taught  570 

548.  Jedwood.  The  same  as  Jedburgh,  Jedworth,  or  Jeddart.  It  was 
sackeJ  and  burned  at  least  seven  times  during  the  international  wars  of 
this  period.  . 

551.  Prescience.    Knowledge  of  future  events. 

555.   Lists.     Field  of  combat. 

568.   Brand.     Sword. 

570.  The  jovial  Harper.  Rattling,  roaring  Willie,  a  noted  border 
minstrel.  He  killed  Sweet  Milk,  called  the  bard  of  ReuU,  in  a  duel,  and 
was  executed  for  the  crime  at  Jedburg. 


92  LAY   OF   THE   LAST  MINSTREL.  canto  iv. 

Me,  yet  a  youth,  how  it  was  fought, 

In  guise  which  now  I  say : 
lie  knew  each  ordinance  and  clause 
Of  black  Lord  Archibald's  battle  laws, 

In  the  old  Douglas'  day.  575 

He  brooked  not,  lie,  that  scoffing  tongue 
Should  tax  his  minstrelsy  with  wrong, 

Or  call  his  song  untrue  ; 
For  this  when  they  the  goblet  plied, 
And  such  rude  taunt  had  chafed  his  pride,  580 

The  bard  of  Reull  he  slew. 
On  Teviot's  side,  in  fight  they  stood. 
And  tuneful  hands  were  stained  with  blood ; 
Where  still  the  thorn's  white  branches  wave 
Memorial  o'er  his  rival's  grave.  585 

XXXV. 

Why  should  I  tell  the  rigid  doom, 
That  dragged  my  master  to  his  tomb ; 

How  Ousenam's  maidens  tore  their  hair, 
Wept  till  their  eyes  were  dead  and  dim. 
And  wrung  their  hands  for  love  of  him,  590 

Who  died  at  Jed  wood  Air? 
He  died  !  —  his  scholars,  one  by  one, 
To  the  cold  silent  grave  are  gone ; 
And  I,  alas  !  survive  alone. 

To  muse  o'er  rivalries  of  yore,  595 

And  grieve  that  I  shall  hear  no  more 
The  strains,  with  envy  heard  before ; 
For,  with  my  minstrel  brethren  fled, 
My  jealousy  of  song  is  dead. 

588.   Ousenam's  maidens.     Those  who  lived  on  the  banks  of  the  Ouse. 


CANTO  IV.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  93 

He  paused :  —  the  listening  dames  again  eoo 

Applaud  the  hoary  Minstrel's  strain ; 

With  many  a  word  of  kindly  cheer,  — 

In  pity  half,  and  half  sincere,  — 

Marvelled  the  Duchess  how  so  well 

His  legendary  song  could  tell  605 

Of  ancient  deeds,  so  long  forgot ; 

Of  feuds,  whose  memory  was  not ; 

Of  forests,  now  laid  waste  and  bare ; 

Of  towers,  which  harbor  now  the  hare ; 

Of  manners,  long  since  changed  and  gone  ;  eio 

Of  chiefs,  who  under  their  gray  stone 

So  long  had  slept,  that  fickle  Fame 

Had  blotted  from  her  rolls  their  name, 

And  twined  round  some  new  minion's  head 

The  fading  wreath  for  which  they  bled; —  (ii5 

In  sooth,  'twas  strange,  this  old  man's  verse 

Could  call  them  from  their  marble  hearse. 

The  Harper  smiled,  well  pleased ;  for  ne'er 
Was  flattery  lost  on  poet's  ear : 
A  simple  race  !  they  waste  their  toil  620 

For  the  vain  tribute  of  a  slnile  ; 
E'en  when  in  age  their  flame  expires, 
Her  dulcet  breath  can  fan  its  fires  : 
Their  drooping  fancy  wakes  at  praise. 
And  strives  to  trim  the  short-lived  blaze.  625 

Smiled  then,  well-pleased,  the  Aged  Man, 
And  thus  his  tale  continued  ran. 


OUTLINE  OF   CANTO   FIFTH. 


The  truce  is  scarcely  concluded,  when  the  martial  bands  that 
have  come  to  the  aid  of  Branksome  are  seen  advancing.  The  senes- 
chal goes  out  to  meet  tliem,  tells  them  of  the  truce  and  the  pro- 
posed combat,  and  begs  them  in  the  Lady's  name,  to  accept  the 
hospitality  of  Branksome  Castle,  and  witness  the  encounter.  The 
English  are  treated  with  like  courtesy,  and  all  feast  together  in  the 
great  hall  of  the  castle  till  late  in  the  night. 

Fair  Margaret  soon  retires  from  the  revels,  and  seeks  her  cham- 
ber, but  she  can  find  no  rest  from  anxious  thoughts.  At  length 
after  a  troubled  sleep,  she  wakes  just  as  the  day  is  dawning,  and 
looking  from  her  window,  sees  Lord  Cranstoun  in  the  court  below. 
The  goblin  has  disguised  him  as  a  knight  from  Hermitage,  but  no 
disguise  can  blind  the  eyes  of  Margaret.  Soon  he  enters  her  bower. 
In  the  morning  there  is  great  dispute  among  the  clansmen  as  to 
who  has  the  best  right  to  fight  in  place  of  the  wounded  Deloraine. 
Suddenly  Deloraine  himself  appears  in  complete  armor,  and  thus 
solves  the  difficulty.  The  combat  is  fierce  but  short,  and  Musgrave 
lies  mortally  wounded  on  the  field.  When  all  is  over  "  a  half- 
naked,  ghastly  man  "  rushes  into  the  lists,  and  is  known  by  all  as 
the  true  Deloraine.  The  champion,  who  in  Deloraine's  armor  has 
won  the  fight,  is  Lord  Cranstoun.  He  leads  the  boy  to  his  mother 
and  kneels  at  her  feet,  but  it  is  only  after  the  intercession  of  the 
English  lords,  and  also  of  her  own  clan,  that  the  Lady  deigns  to 
notice  him,  forego  the  old  feud,  and  consent  to  his  betrotlial  to 
Fair  Margaret.  Before  Deloraine  loaves  the  field,  he  pronounces  a 
long  eulogy  and  lament  over  his  fallen  enemy. 


^mito  intux. 


(^ 


Call  it  not  vain  :  —  they  do  not  err, 

Who  say,  tluvt,  when  the  Poet  dies, 
Mute  Nature  mourns  her  worshipper, 

And  celebrates  his  obsequies ; 
Who  say,  tall  cliff,  and  cavern  lone,  5 

For  the  departed  bard  make  moan ; 
That  mountains  weep  in  crystal  rill ; 
That  flowers  in  tears  of  balm  distil ; 
Through  his  loved  groves  that  breezes  sigli. 
And  oaks,  in  deeper  groan,  reply  ;  10 

And  rivers  teach  their  rusliing  wave 
To  murmur  dirges  round  his  grave. 

II. 

Not  that,  in  sooth,  o'er  mortal  urn 

Those  things  inanimate  can  mourn; 

But  that  the  stream,  the  wood,  the  gale,  15* 

Is  vocal  with  the  plaintive  wail 

Of  those  who,  else  forgotten  long. 

Lived  in  the  poet's  faithful  song, 

And,  with  the  poet's  parting  breath, 

W^hose  memory  feels  a  second  death.  20 

The  maid's  pale  shade,  who  wails  her  lot. 

That  love,  true  love,  should  be  forgot. 

From  rose  and  hawthorn  shakes  the  tear 


96  LAY    OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  v. 

Upon  the  gentle  nnnstrel's  bier  : 

The  phantuiu  knight,  his  glory  lied,  25 

Mourns  o'er  the  fields  he  heaped  with  dead ; 

Mounts  the  wild  blast  that  sweeps  amain. 

And  shrieks  along  the  battle-j)lain  : 

The  chief  whose  antique  crownlet  long 

Still  sparkled  in  the  feudal  song,  30 

Now  from  the  mountain's  misty  throne, 

Sees,  in  thanedom  once  his  own. 

His  ashes  undistinguished  lie. 

His  place,  his  power,  his  memory  die : 

His  groans  the  lonely  caverns  fill,  35 

His  tears  of  rage  impel  the  rill ; 

All  mourn  the  minstrel's  l)ai'p  unstrung, 

Their  name  unknown,  their  praise  unsung. 

IIL 

Scarcely  the  hot  assault  was  staid, 

The  terms  of  truce  were  scarcely  made,  40 

When  they  could  spy,  from  Branksome's  towers. 

The  advancing  march  of  martial  powers; 

Thick  clouds  of  dust  afar  appeared. 

And  trampling  steeds  were  faintly  heard ; 

Bright  spears,  above  the  columns  dun,  45 

Glanced  momentary  to  the  sun ; 

And  feudal  banners  fair  displayed 

The  bands  that  moved  to  Branksome's  aid. 

rv. 

'Vails  not  to  tell  each  hardv  clan. 

From  the  fair  INIiddle  Marches  came;  50 


CANTO  V.  LAY    OF   THE   LAST    MINSTREL.  97 

The  Bloody  Heart  blazed  in  the  van, 

Annouucinof  Douohis,  dreaded  name ! 
'Vails  not  to  tell  what  steeds  did  spurn, 
Where  the  Seven  Spears  of  Wedderburn 

Their  men  in  battle-order  set ;  55 

And  Swinton  laid  the  lance  in  rest, 
That  tamed  of  yore  the  sparkling  crest 

Of  Clarence's  Plantagenet.  ^ 

Nor  lists,  I  say,  what  hundreds  more, 
From  the  rich  Merse  and  Lammermore,  60 

And  Tweed's  fair  borders,  to  the  war, 
Beneath  the  crest  of  old  Dunbar, 

And  Hepburn's  mingled  banners  come, 
Down  the  steep  mountain  glittering  far. 

And  shouting  still,  "A  Home  !  a  Home  I  "  65 


Now  squire  and  knight,  from  Branksome  sent, 

On  many  a  courteous  message  went ; 

To  every  chief  and  lord  they  paid 

Meet  thanks  for  prompt  and  powerful  aid ; 

And  told  them,  —  how  a  truce  was  made,  70 

51.  Bloody  Heart.  Cognizance  of  the  house  of  Douglas,  assumed  from 
the  time  of  good  Lord  James  Douglas,  to  whose  keeping  Eobert  Bruce 
committed  his  heart  to  be  carried  to  the  Holy  Laud. 

54.  Seven  Spears  of  Wedderburn.  The  seven  sons  of  Sir  David  Home 
of  Wedderburn. 

58.  Clarence  Plantagenet.  At  the  battle  of  Bouge  in  France,  Thomas, 
Duke  of  Clarence,  brother  of  Henry  Y.,  was  unhorsed  by  Sir  John  Swinton, 
who  distinguished  him  from  the  other  knights  by  a  coronet  set  with  pre-- 
cious  stones  which  he  wore  around  his  helmet. 

65.  A  Home!  The  Earls  of  Home  were  descendants  of  the  Dunbars, 
ancient  Earls  of  March.  Their  war-cry  was  "A  Home!  a  Home!"  The 
Hepburns,  a  powerful  family  of  East  Lothian,  were  usually  in  close  alliance 
with  them. 


98  LAY    OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  v. 

And  liow  a  day  of  fight  was  ta'en 
'Twixt  Musgrave  and  stout  Deloraine  ; 

And  how  the  Ladye  prayed  them  dear, 
That  all  would  stay  the  light  to  see, 
And  deign,  in  love  and  courtesy,  75 

To  taste  of  Branksonie  cheer. 

Nor,  while  they  bade  to  feast  each  Scot, 

Were  England's  noble  ]-.ords  forgot ; 

Himself,  the  hoary  Seneschal, 

Rode  forth,  in  seemly  terms  to  call  80 

Those  ccfdlant  foes  to  Branksome  Hall. 

Accepted  Howard,  tlian  whom  knight 

Was  never  dubbed,  more  bold  in  fight; 

Nor,  when  from  war  and  armor  free. 

More  famed  for  stately  courtesy :  85 

But  angry  Dacre  rather  chose 

In  his  pavilion  to  repose. 

VI. 

Now,  noble  Dame,  perchance  you  ask 

How  these  two  hostile  armies  met ! 
Deeming  it  were  no  easy  task  oq 

To  keep  the  truce  which  here  was  set; 
Where  martial  spirits,  all  on  fire, 
Breathed  only  blood  and  mortal  ire. — 
By  mutual  inroads,  mutual  blows, 
By  habit,  and  by  nation,  foes,  95 

They  met  on  Teviot's  strand  : 
They  met,  and  sate  them  mingled  down. 
Without  a  threat,  without  a  frown. 
As  brothers  meet  in  foreign  land: 
The  hands,  the  spear  that  lately  grasped,  toy 


CANTO   V. 


LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTKEL.  99 


Still  in  the  mailed  gauntlet  clasped, 

Were  interchanged  in  greeting  dear; 
Visors  were  raised,  and  faces  shown. 
And  many  a  friend,  to  friend  made  known, 

Partook  of  social  cheer.  105 

Some  drove  the  jolly  bowl  about ; 

With  dice  and  draughts  some  chased  the  day ; 
And  some,  with  many  a  merry  shout, 
In  riot,  revelry,  and  rout, 

Pursued  the  foot-ball  play.  no 

VII. 

Yet  be  it  known,  had  bugles  blown, 

Or  sign  of  war  been  seen ; 
Those  bands,  so  fair  together  ranged, 
Those  hands,  so  frankly  interchanged, 

Had  dyed  with  gore  the  green  :  115 

The  merry  shout  by  Teviot-side 
Had  sunk  in  war-cries  wild  and  wide. 

And  in  the  groan  of  death ; 
And  whingers,  now  in  friendship  bare, 
The  social  meal  to  part  and  share,  120 

Had  found  a  blood}^  sheath. 
'Twixt  truce  and  war,  such  sudden  change 
Was  not  unfrequent,  nor  held  strange. 

In  the  old  Border-day ; 
But  yet  on  Branksome's  towers  and  town,  125 

In  peaceful  merriment,  sunk  down 
The  sun's  declining  ray. 

119.  Whingers.    A  sort  of  knife  or  poniard. 


100  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   JMl^'STliEL.  canto  v. 

VIII. 

The  blithesome  signs  of  wassel  gay- 
Decayed  not  with  the  dying  day ; 
/^ooii  through  the  latticed  windows  tall,  130 

{  Of  lofty  Branksome's  lordly  liall, 
Divided  square  by  shafts  of  stone, 
Huge  flakes  of  ruddy  lustre  shone; 
Nor  less  the  gilded  rafters  rang, 
With  merry  harp  and  beakers'  clang ;  135 

And  frequent,  on  the  darkening  plain. 

Loud  hollo,  whoo}),  or  whistle  ran, 
As  bands,  their  stragglers  to  regain, 

Give  the  shrill  w^atchword  of  their  clan  ; 
And  revellers,  o'er  their  bowls,  jiroclaini  uo 

Douglas'  or  Dacre's  conquering  name. 

IX. 

Less  frequent  heard,  and  fainter  still, 

At  length  the  various  clamors  died  ; 
And  you  might  hear,  from  Branksonic  hill. 

No  sound  but  Teviot's  rushing  tide;  145 

Save,  when  the  changing  sentinel 
The  challenge  of  his  watch  could  tell ; 
And  save,  where,  through  the  dark  piofound. 
The  clanging  axe  and  hammer's  sound 

Rung  from  the  nether  lawn  ;  ir,o 

For  many  a  busy  hand  toiled  there. 
Strong  pales  to  shape,  and  beams  to  square, 
The  lists'  dread  barriers  to  prepare, 

Against  the  morrow's  dawn. 

I'JS.  Wassel.     Festivity.  i:>.").   Beakers.    Drinking-glasses. 


CANTO  V.  LAY   OF  THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  101 

X. 

Margaret  from  liall  did  soon  retreat,  155 

Despite  tlie  Dame's  rei)roviiig  eye, 
Nor  marked  she,  as  she  left  her  seat, 

Full  maii}^  a  stifled  sigh  : 
For  maiiv  a  noble  warrior  strove 
To  will  the  flower  of  Teviot's  love,  I60 

And  many  a  bold  ally. — 
With  throbbing  head  and  anxious  heart. 
All  in  her  lonely  bower  apart. 

In  broken  sleep  she  lay : 
By  times,  from  silken  couch  she  rose ;  165 

While  yet  the  bannered  hosts  repose. 

She  viewed  the  dawning  day  : 
Of  all  the  hundreds  sunk  to  rest. 
First  woke  the  loveliest  and  the  best. 

xr. 

She  gazed  upon  the  inner  court,  i7u 

Which  in  the  tower's  tall  shadow  lay ; 
Where  coursers'  clang,  and  stamp,  and  snort. 

Had  rung  the  livelong  yesterday ; 
Now  still  as  death  ;  —  till,  stalking  slow,  — 

The  jingling  spurs  announced  his  tread,  —        175 
A  stately  warrior  passed  below ; 

But  when  he  raised  his  plumed  head  — 
Blessed  Mary  !  can  it  be  ? 

Secure,  as  if  in  Onsenam  bowers. 

He  walks  throuc^h  Biahksome's  hostile  towers  18O 

179.  Ousenam's  bowers.     The  domain  of  Lord  Craii-stoun  on  the  banks 
of  Ui*'  Oiisi'. 


102  LAY   OF   THE    LAST    MINSTREL.  canto  v. 

With  fearless  step  and  free. 
She  dare  not  sign,  she  dare  not  speak  — 
Oh  I  if  one  page's  slumbers  break, 

Ills  blood  the  price  must  pay ! 
Not  all  the  pearls  Queen  ]\Iary  wears,  '  I85 

Not  Margaret's  yet  more  precious  tears, 

Shall  buy  his  life  a  day. 

xn. 

Yet  was  his  hazard  small  — for  well 
You  may  bethink  you  of  the  spell 

Of  that  sly  urchin  Page  ;  190 

This  to  his  lord  he  did  impart 
And  made  liim  seem,  by  glamour  art, 

A  knio-ht  from  Hermitajxe. 
Unchallenged,  thus,  the  warder's  post. 
The  court,  unchallenged,  thus  he  crossed,  195 

For  all  tlie  vassalage : 
But,  O  !  what  magic's  quaint  disguise 
Could  blind  fair  Margaret's  azure  ej'es ! 

She  started  from  her  seat ; 
While  with  surprise  and  fear  she  strove,  200 

And  both  could  scarcely  master  love  -^ 

Lord  Henry's  at  her  feet. 

xin. 

Oft  have  I  mused,  what  purj)Ose  bad 
That  foul  malicious  urchin  had 

To  bring  this  meeting  round ;  205 

For  happy  love's  a  heavenly  sight, 
And  by  a  vile  malignant  si)rite 

In  such  no  joy  is  found  : 


CANTO  V.  LAY    OF    THE    LAST   MINSTREL.  103 

And  oft  I've  deemed,  perchance  he  thought 

Their  erring  passion  might  have  wrought  210 

Sorrow,  and  sin,  and  shame  ; 
And  death  to  Cranston n's  galhmt  Knight, 
And  to  the  gentle  Ladye  bright, 

Disgrace,  and  loss  of  fame. 
But  earthly  spirit  could  not  tell  215 

The  heart  of  them  that  loved  so  well ; 
■     True  love's  the  gift  which  God  has  given 
To  man  alone  beneath  the  heaven. 

It  is  not  Fantasy's  hot  fire. 

Whose  wishes,  soon  as  granted,  fly;  220 

It  liveth  not  in  fierce  desire. 

With  dead  desire  it  doth  not  die : 
It  is  the  secret  symj^^athy. 
The  silver  link,  the  silken  tie. 

Which  heart  to  heart,  and  mind  to  mind,  225 

In  body  and  in  soul  can  bind.  — 
Now  leave  we  Margaret  and  her  Knight, 
To  tell  you  of  the  approaching  fight. 

XIV. 

Their  warning  blast  the  bugles  blew. 

The  pipe's  shrill  port  aroused  each  clan ;  230 

In  haste,  the  deadly  strife  to  view. 

The  trooping  warriors  eager  ran  : 
Thick  round  the  lists  their  lances  stood, 
Like  blasted  pines  in  Ettrick  wood ; 
To  Branksome  many  a  look  they  threw,  235 

The  combatants'  approach  to  view. 
And  bandied  many  a  word  of  boast, 
About  tlie  knisfht  each  favored  most. 


104  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  y, 

XV. 

Meantime  full  anxious  was  the  Dame; 

For  now  arose  disputed  claim,  240 

Of  who  should  fight  for  Deloraine, 

'Twixt  Harden  and  'twixt  Thirlestane: 
They  'gan  to  reckon  kin  and  rent, 
And  frowning  brow  on  brow  was  bent; 

But  yet  not  long  the  strife  —  for,  lo  I  245 

Himself,  the  Knight  of  Deloraine, 
Strong,  as  it  seemed,  and  free  from  pain, 
In  armor  sheathed  from  top  to  toe, 

Appeared,  and  craved  the  combat  due. 

The  Dame  her  charm  successful  knew,  250 

And  the  fierce  chiefs  their  claims  withdrew. 

XVI. 

When  for  the  lists  they  sought  the  plain, 
The  stately  Ladye's  silken  rein 

Did  noble  Howard  hold  ; 
Unarmed  by  her  side  he  walked,  255 

And  much,  in  courteous  phrase,  they  talked 

Of  feats  of  arms  of  old. 
Costly  his  garb,  his  Flemish  ruff 
Fell  o'er  his  doublet,  shaped  of  buff, 

With  satin  slashed,  and  lined  ;  260 

Tawny  his  boot,  and  gold  his  spur, 
His  cloak  was  all  of  Poland  fur, 

His  hose  with  silver  twined  ; 
His  Bilboa  blade,  by  Marclnnen  felt, 

250.   Buff.     A  material  so  tough  as  to  resi.st  the  blows  of  a  sword. 
2(j4.   Bilboa  blade.    A  Spanish  sword,  so  called  because  Bilboa  iu  Spain 
was  famous  for  its  manufacture  of  tine  steel. 


CANTO  V.  LAY    OF   THE   LAST    MINSTIIEL.  105 

Hung  in  a  broad  and  studded  belt ;  265 

Hence,  in  rude  phrase,  the  Borderers  still 
Called  noble  Howard,  Belted  Will. 

xvn. 

Behind  Lord  Howard  and  the  Dame, 
Fair  Margaret  on  her  palfrey  came. 

Whose  foot-cloth  sw^ept  the  ground ;  270 

White  was  her  wimple,  and  her  veil, 
And  her  loose  locks  a  chaplet  pale 

Of  whitest  roses  bound  ; 
The  lordly  Angus,  by  her  side. 
In  courtesy  to  cheer  her  tried ;  275 

Without  his  aid,  her  hand  in  vain 
Had  strove  to  guide  her  broidered  rein. 
He  deemed,  she  shuddered  at  the  sight 
Of  warriors  met  for  mortal  fight ; 
But  cause  of  terror,  all  uuguessed,  280 

Was  fluttering  in  her  gentle  breast, 
-^When,  in  their  chairs  of  crimson  placed, 
The  Dame  and  she  the  barriers  graced. 

xviri. 

Prize  of  the  field,  the  young  Buccleuch, 

An  English  knight  led  forth  to  view  ;  2S.-) 

Scarce  rued  the  boy  his  present  plight, 

So  much  he  longed  to  see  the  fight. 

Within  the  lists,  in  knightly  pride, 

High  Home  and  haughty  Dacre  ride  ; 

Their  leading  staffs  of  steel  they  wield,  2S)0, 

As  marshals  of  the  mortal  field  : 

271.  Wimple.    A  plaited  kerchief. 


106  LAY   OF   THE  LAST   MIl^STKEL.  canto  v. 

While  to  each  knight  their  care  assigned 

Like  vantage  of  the  sun  and  wind. 

Then  herakls  hoarse  did  loud  proclaim, 

In  king  and  queen,  and  wardens'  name,  295 

That  none,  while  lasts  the  strife, 
Should  dare,  by  look,  or  sign,  or  word, 
Aid  to  a  champion  to  afford, 

On  peril  of  his  life  ; 
And  not  a  breath  the  silence  broke,  300 

Till  thus  the  alternate  heralds  spoke : 

XIX. 
ENGLISH    HERALD. 

*"Here  standeth  Richard  of  Musgrave, 

Good  knight  and  true,  and  freely  born, 
Amends  from  Deloraine  to  crave. 

For  foul  despiteous  scathe  and  scorn.  305 

He  sayeth,  that  William  of  Deloraine' 

Is  traitor  false  by  Border  laws  ; 
This  with  his  sword  he  will  maintain, 

So  help  him  God,  and  his  good  cause ! " 

XX. 

SCOTTISH   HERALD. 

"  Here  standeth  William  of  Deloraine,  310 

Good  knight  and  true,  of  noble  strain, 
Who  sayeth,  that  foul  treason's  stain, 
Since  he  bore  arms,  ne'er  soiled  his  coat ; 
And  that,  so  help  him  God  above, 

305.  Scathe.     Injury. 


CANTO  V.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  107 

He  will  on  Musgrave's  body  prove,  315 

He  lies  most  foully  in  his  throat." 

LORD   DACRE. 

"Forward,  brave  champions,  to  the  fight! 
Sound  trumpets  !  " 

LORD  HOME. 
"  God  defend  the  ridit !  " 


Then,  Teviot!  how  thine  echoes  rang,  320 

When  bugle-sound  and  trumpet-clang 

Let  loose  the  martial  foes, 
'And  in  mid  list,  with  shield  poised  high, 
And  measured  step  and  wary  eye, 

The  combatants  did  close.  325 

XXI. 

Ill  would  it  suit  your  gentle  ear, 

Ye  lovely  listeners,  to  hear 

How  to  the  axe  the*  helms  did  sound. 

And  blood  poured  down  from  many  a  wound; 

For  desperate  was  the  strife,  and  long,  330 

And  either  warrior  fierce  and  strong. 

But,  were  each  dame  a  listening  knight, 

I  well  could  tell  how  warriors  fight ; 

For  I  have  seen  war's  lightning  fiasliing, 

Seen  the  claymore  with  ba3'-onet  clashing,  335 

Seen  through  red  blood  the  war-horse  dashing. 

And  scorned,  amid  the  reeling  strife, 

To  yield  a  step  for  death  or  life. 

335.   Claymore.    A  large,  two-handed  sword,  used  by  the  Highlauders 
of  Scotland. 


108  LAY   OF   THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  v. 

XXII. 

'Tis  done,  'tis  done  !  that  fatal  blow 

Has  stretched  hiin  on  the  bloody  plain ;  340 

He  strives  to  rise  —  Brave  Musgrave,  no  I 

Thence  never  shalt  thou  rise  again  ! 
He  chokes  in  blood  —  some  friendly  hand 
Undo  the  visor's  barred  band, 

Unfix  the  gorget's  iron  clasp,  345 

And  give  him  room  for  life  to  gasp!  — 
O,  bootless  aid  !  —  haste,  holy  Friar, 
Haste,  ere  the  sinner  shall  expire ! 
Of  all  his  guilt  let  him  be  shriven, 
And  smooth  his  path  from  earth  to  heaven.  350 

« 

XXIIT. 

In  haste  the  holy  Friar  sped ;  — 
His  naked  foot  was  dyed  with  red, 

As  through  the  lists  he  ran ; 
Unmindful  of  the  shouts  o«  high. 
That  hailed  the  conqueror's  victory,  355 

He  raised  the  dying  man  ; 
Loose  waved  his  silver  beard  and  hair, 
As  o'er  him  he  kneeled  down  in  prayer ; 
And  still  the  crucifix  on  high 

He  holds  before  his  darkening  eye  ;  3G0 

And  still  he  bends  an  anxious  ear, 
His  faltering  penitence  to  hear; 

Still  props  him  from  the  bloody  sod. 
Still,  even  when  soul  and  body  part, 

344.  Visor.     Armor  which  protects  the  face. 
^5.  Gorget,     .\rmor  which  protects  the  neck. 


CANTO  V.  LAY   OF  THE   LAST   MlNSTllEL.  109 

Pours  gliostly  comfort  on  his  heart,  3(>3 

And  bids  him  trust  in  God  ! 
Uidieard  he  prays  ;  —  the  death  pang's  o'er 
Richard  of  Musgrave  breathes  no  more. 

XXIV. 

As  if  exhausted  in  the  fight, 

Or  musing  o'er  the  piteous  sight,  370 

The  silent  victor  stands ; 
His  beaver  did  he  not  unclasp, 
Marked  not  the  sliouts,  felt  not  the  grasp 

Of  gratulating  hands. 
When  lo  I  strange  cries  of  wild  surprise,  375 

Mingled  with  seeming  terror,  rise 

Among  the  Scottish  bands ; 
And  all,  amid  the  thronged  array, 
In  panic  haste  gave  open  way 

To  a  half-nahed  ghastly  man,  38o 

Who  downward  from  the  castle  ran  ; 
He  crossed  the  barriers  at  a  bound. 
And  wild  and  haggard  looked  around. 

As  dizzy,  and  in  pain ; 
And  all,  upon  the  armed  ground,  385 

Knew  William  of  Deloraine  ! 
Each  ladye  sprung  from  seat  with  speed ; 
Vaulted  each  marshal  from  his  steed ; 

"  And  who  art  thou,"  they  cried, 
"  Who  hast  this  battle  fought  and  won  ?  "  390 

His  plumed  helm  was  soon  undone  — 

"  Cranstoun  of  Teviotside  I 

372.  Beaver.    The  mouthpiece  of  the  helmet. 


110  LAY   OF   THE  LAST  MINSTREL.  canto  v. 

For  this  fair  prize  I've  fought  and  won,"  — 
And  to  the  Ladye  led  her  son. 

XXV. 

Full  oft  the  rescued  boy  she  kissed,  395 

And  often  pressed  him  to  her  breast, 
For,  under  all  her  dauntless  show. 
Her  heart  had  throbbed  at  every  blow ; 
Yet  not  Lord  Cranstoun  deigned  she  greet. 
Though  low  he  kneeled  at  her  feet.  —  400 

Me  lists  not  tell  what  words  were  made, 
What  Douglas,  Home,  and  Howard  said  — • 

For  Howard  was  a  generous  foe  — 
And  how  tlie  clan  united  prayed. 

The  Ladye  would  the  feud  forego,  405 

And  deign  to  bless  the  nuptial  hour 
Of  Cranstoun's  Lord  and  Teviot's  Flower. 

XXVI. 

She  looked  to  river,  looked  to  hill, 

Thought  on  the  Spirit's  prophec}^ 
Then  broke  lier  silence  stern  and  still, —  410 

"Not  you,  but  Fate,  has  vanquished  me; 
Their  influence  kindly  stars  may  shower 
On  Teviot's  tide  and  Branksome's  tower, 

For  pride  is  quelled,  and  love  is  free." 
She  took  fair  INIargaret  by  the  hand,  415 

Who,  breathless,  trembling,  scarce  might  stand, 

That  hand  to  Cranstoun's  lord  gave  she. 
"  As  I  am  true  to  thee  and  thine, 

401.  Lists.    Desires. 


CANTO  V.  LAY  OF   THE  LAST   MINSTREL.  Ill 

Do  thou  be  true  to  me  and  mine ! 

This  cLasp  of  love  our  bond  shall  be ;  420 

For  this  is  your  betrothing  day, 
And  all  these  noble  lords  shall  stay, 

To  grace  it  with  their  company." 

XXVII. 

All  as  they  left  the  listed  plain, 
Much  of  the  story  she  did  gain :  425 

How  Craifstoun  fought  with  Deloraine, 
And  of  his  Page,  and  of  the  Book, 
Which  from  the  wounded  knight  he  took ; 
And  how  he  sought  her  castle  high, 
That  morn,  by  help  of  gramarye  ;  430 

How,  in  Sir  William's  armor  dight, 
Stolen  by  his  Page,  while  slept  the  knight. 
He  took  on  him  the  single  fight. 
But  half  his  tale  he  left  unsaid. 
And  lingered  till  he  joined  the  maid.  —  435 

.  Cared  not  the  Lad3'e  to  betray 
Her  mystic  arts  in  view  of  day ; 
But  well  she  thought,  ere  midnight  came, 
Of  that  strange  Page  tlie  pride  to  tame, 
From  his  foul  hands  the  Book  to  save,  440 

And  send  it  back  to  Michael's  grave. — 
Needs  not  to  tell  each  tender  word 
'Twixt  ]\Iargaret  and  'twixt  Cranstoun's  lord  ; 
Nor  how  she  told  of  former  woes, 
And  how  her  bosom  fell  and  rose,  445 

While  he  and  Musgrave  bandied  blows  — 
Needs  not  these  lovers'  joys  to  tell ; 
One  day,  fair  maids,  you'll  know  them  well. 


112  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  v. 

XXVI 1 1. 

William  of  Deloraine,  some  chance 

Had  wakened  from  his  deathlike  trance ;  450 

And  taught  that,  in  tlie  listed  plain. 
Another,  in  liis  arms  and  shield, 
Aecainst  fierce  Mussfrave  axe  did  wield, 

Under  the  name  of  Deloraine. 
Hence,  to  the  field,  unarmed,  he  ran,  455 

And  hence  his  presence  scared  the  c4aii, 
Who  held  him  for  some  fleeting  wraith, 
And  not  a  man  of  blood  and  breath. 

Not  much  this  new  ally  he  loved, 

Yet,  when  he  saw  what  hap  had  proved,  4(;o 

He  greeted  him  right  heartilie : 

He  would  not  waken  old  debate, 

For  he  was  void  of  rancorous  hate, 
Though  rude,  and  scant  of  courtesy; 
In  raids  he  spilt  but  seldom  blood,  4G5 

Unless  when  nien-at-arms  withstood. 
Or,  as  was  meet,  for  deadly  feud. 
He  ne'er  bore  grudge  for  stalwart  blow, 
Ta'en  in  fair  fight  from  oallant  foe: 

And  so  'twas  seen  of  him,  e'en  now,  470 

When  on  dead  Musgrave  he  looked  down ; 

Grief  darkened  on  his  rugged  brow, 
Though  half  disguised  with  a  frown ; 
And  thus,  while  sorrow  bent  his  head, 
His  foeman's  epitaph  he  made.  475 

457.  Fleeting  wraith.    Spectral  apparition  of  a  living  person. 


CANTO  V.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  113 

XXIX. 

"  Now,  Richard  Miisgrave,  liest  thou  here  ! 

I  ween,  my  deadly  enemy; 
For  if  I  slew  thy  brother  dear, 

Thou  slewest  a  sister's  son  to  me  ; 
And  when  I  lay  in  dungeon  dark,  480 

Of  Naworth  Castle,  long  months  three, 
Till  ransomed  for  a  thousand  mark. 

Dark  Musgrave,  it  was  long  of  thee. 
And,  Musgrave,  could  our  fight  be  tried, 

And  thou  we  it  now  alive,  as  I,  485 

No  mortal  man  should  us  divide, 

Till  one,  or  both  of  us,  did  die : 
Yet,  rest  thee  God  I  for  well  I  know, 
I  ne'er  shall  find  a  nobler  foe. 

In  all  the  northern  counties  here,  490 

Whose  word  is,  Snafle,  spur,  and  spear. 
Thou  wert  the  best  to  follow  gear. 
'Twas  pleasure,  as  we  looked  behind, 
To  see  how  thou  the  chase  could  wind, 
Cheer  the  dark  blood-hound  on  his  way,  495 

And  with  the  bugle  rouse  the  fray! 
I'd  give  the  lands  of  Deloraine, 
Dark  Musgrave  were  alive  again." 

XXX. 

So  mourned  he,  till  Lord  Dacre's  band 

Were  bowning  back  to  Cumberland.  500 

491.  Snafle,  spur,  and  spear.  The  blazou  of  the  Border  marauders, 
livhig  between  the  Ouse  and  Berwick. 

495.  Blood-hound.  The  Border  marauders  were  often  tracked  by 
blood-hounds. 


114  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  v. 

They  raised  brave  Musgrave  from  the  field, 

And  laid  him  on  liis  bloody  shield  ; 

On  levelled  lances,  four  and  four, 

By  turns,  the  noble  burden  bore : 

Before,  at  times,  upon  the  gale,  505 

Was  heard  the  Minstrel's  plaintive  wail ; 

Behind,  four  priests,  in  sable  stole, 

Sung  requiem  for  the  warrior's  soul : 

Around,  the  horsemen  slowly  rode  ; 

With  trailing  pikes  the  spearmen  trod;  510 

And  thus  the  gallant  knight  they  bore, 

Through  Liddesdale,  to  Leven's  shore; 

Thence  to  Holme  Coltrame's  lofty  nave, 

And  laid  him  in  his  father's  grave. 


The  harp's  wild  notes,  though  hushed  the  song,  515 

The  mimic  march  of  death  prolong ; 

Now  seems  it  far,  and  now  a-near, 

Now  meets,  and  now  eludes  the  ear ; 

Now  seems  some  mountain  side  to  sweep, 

Now  faintly  dies  in  valley  deep  ;  520 

Seems  now  as  if  the  Minstrel's  wail. 

Now  the  sad  requiem  loads  the  gale ; 

Last,  o'er  the  warrior's  closing  grave, 

Rung  the  full  choir  in  choral  stave. 


'b 


After  due  pause  they  bade  him  tell,  525 

Why  he  who  touched  the  harp  so  well. 
Should  thus,  with  ill-rewarded  toil, 
Wander  a  poor  and  thaidvless  soil. 
When  the  more  generous  southern  land 
Would  well  requite  his  skilful  hand.  530 


CANTO  V.  LAY   OF    THE   LAST   MINSTIiEL.  115 

The  Aged  Harper,  howsoe'er 
His  only  friend,  his  harp,  was  dear, 
Liked  not  to  hear  it  ranked  so  high 
Above  his  flowing  poesy  ; 

Less  liked  he  still,  that  scornful  jeer      •  535 

Misprized  the  land  he  loved  so  dear ; 
High  was  the  sound,  as  thus  again 
The  bard  resumed  his  minstrel  strain. 


OUTLINE   OF   CANTO   SIXTH. 


This  canto  opens  with  the  bard's  invocation  to  Caledonia.  Then 
we  have  a  description  of  the  betrothal  and  the  feast  which  follows. 
Through  all  this  merry-making,  the  goblin  page  iiever  loses  a 
chance  for  mischief,  starts  quarrels  among  the  guests,  and,  not  for- 
getting the  grudge  he  bears  to  Watt  Tinlinn,  first  enrages  him  by- 
taunting  jests,  and  then  pierces  his  knee  to  the  bone  with  his 
bodkin.  At  length  the  Lady,  to  quell  tlie  growing  tumult,  bids 
the  minstrels  "  tune  th(jir  lay,"  and  their  songs  bring  back  harmony 
and  good  cheer.  The  guests  do  not  mark  the  gathering  gloom, 
till  a  strange  horror  creeps  over  them,  and  the  elfin  page  falls  to  the 
ground  muttering,  "Found!  found!  found!"  Tlien  follows  a  j>eal 
of  thunder  and  a  vivid  flash  of  liglitning,  and  the  elfin  page  is  seen 
no  more.  In  the  glare  of  the  lightning,  some  of  the  guests  have 
seen  an  arm,  and  some  the  waving  of  a  gown,  but  Deloraine  is  trans- 
fixed with  terror,  for  he  has  seen  the  wizard  iMichael  Scott,  just  as 
he  had  seen  him  in  his  grave  at  ]\Ielrose  Abbey.  Tlie  terrified  com- 
pany at  first  can  scarcely  speak  ;  but  at  length  Lord  Angus  breaks 
the  fearful  silence  by  vow  ing  to  make  a  pilgrimage  for  the  rest  of 
Michael's  soul.  Each  of  the  company  follows  in  turn,  making  a 
vow  to  his  patron  saint,  to  perform  a  pilgrimage  for  the  repose  of 
]\Iichael  Scott's  soul.  The  noble  Lady  in  dismay,  renounces  forever 
her  magic  arts.  Then  follows  a  description  of  the  pilgrim  train  of 
kniglits  with  naked  feet  and  sackcloth  vest,  with  priest  and  taper 
and  holy  banner  and  solemn  hymns  for  the  dead,  as  they  seek 
^Melrose's  holy  sln-ine. 

Here  ends  the  story,  but  the  minstrel  is  a  wanderer  no  longer. 
Close  beside  Newark  Castle  he  is  given  a  humble  home,  where  he 
loves  to  show  hospitality  to  jwor  wanderers,  and  cheer  all  who  pass 
his  door  with  the  songs  of  chivalry. 


Catxto  J^ixtlx. 

I. 

Breathes  there  the  man  with  soul  so  dead, 
Who  never  to  himself  hath  said, 

This  is  my  own,  my  native  land  I 
Whose  heart  hath  ne'er  within  him  burned, 
As  home  his  footsteps  he  hath  turned,  5 

From  wandering  on  a  foreign  strand ! 
If  such  there  breathe,  go,  njark  him  well. 
For  him  no  Minstrel  raptures  swell ; 
High  though  his  titles,  proud  his  name. 
Boundless  his  wealth  as  wish  can  claim  ;  10 

Despite  those  titles,  power,  and  pelf,  ^^. ... 
The  wretch,  concentered  all  in  self, 
Living,  shall  forfeit  fair  rermwn. 
And,  doubly  dying,  shall  go  down 
To  the  vile  dust,  from  whence  he  sprung,  15 

Unwept,  unhonored,  and  unsung.  • 

II. 

O  Caledonia !  stern  and  wild, 

Meet  nurse  for  a  poetic  child ! 

Land  of  brown  heath  and  shaggy  wood, 

Land  of  the  mountain  and  the  flood,  20 

Land  of  my  sires !  what  mortal  hand 

Can  e'er  untie  the  filial  band. 

That  knits  me  to  thy  rugged  strand  ! 

Still,  as  I  view  each  well-known  scene, 


IV. 

]Me  lists  not  at  this  tide  declare 
Tlie  splendor  of  a  spousal  rite, 


30 


118  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTKEL.  canto  ti. 

Think  what  is  now,  and  what  hath  been,  25 

Seems  as,  to  me,  of  all  bereft. 

Sole  friends,  thy  woods  and  streams  Avere  left. 

And  thus  I  love  them  better  still. 

Even  in  extremity  of  ill. 

By  Yarrow's  stream  still  let  me  stray, 

Though  none  should  guide  my  feeble  v/ay; 

Still  feel  the  breeze  down  Ettrick  break, 

Although  it  chill  my  withered  cheek ; 

Still  lay  my  head  by  Teviot  stone, 

Though  there,  forgotten  and  alone,  35 

The  Bard  may  draw  his  parting  groan. 

III. 

Not  scorned  like  me  I  to  Branksome  Hall 

The  Minstrels  came,  at  festive  call ; 

Trooping  they  came,  from  near  and  far, 

The  jovial  priests  of  mirth  and  war ;  40 

Alike  for  feast  and  fight  prepared. 

Battle  and  banquet  both  they  shared. 

Of  late,  before  each  martial  clan, 

The}'  blew  their  death-note  in  the  van. 

But  now,  for  every  merry  mate. 

Rose  the  portcullis'  iron  grate ; 

They  sound  the  pipe,  they  strike  the  string, 

They  dance,  they  revel,  and  they  sing. 

Till  the  rude  turrets  shake  and  ring. 


45 


60 


40.  Portcullis.    A  frame-work  of  timbers  interlaced  in  the  shape  of  a 
burrow,  wliich  could  be  lowered  to  close  a  gateway. 


CANTO  VI.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  119 

How  mustered  in  the  chapel  fair 

Both  maid  and  matron,  squire  and  knight ; 
Me  lists  not  tell  of  owches  rare, 
Of  mantles  green,  and  braided  hair,  55 

And  kirtles  furred  with  miniver; 
What  plumage  waved  the  altar  round. 
How  spurs,  and  ringing  chainlets,  sound : 
And  hard  it  were  for  bard  to  speak 
The  changeful  hue  of  Margaret's  cheek ;  co 

That  lovely  hue,  which  comes  and  flies, 
As  awe  and  shame  alternate  rise  ! 

V. 

Some  bards  have  sung,  the  Ladye  high 

Chapel  or  altar  came  not  nigh; 

Nor  durst  the  rites  of  spousal  grace,  65 

So  much  she  feared  each  holy  place. 

False  slanders  these  :  —  I  trust  right  well, 

She  wrought  not  by  forbidden  spell ; 

For  mighty  words  and  signs  have  power 

O'er  sprites  in  planetary  hour :  70 

Yet  scarce  I  praise  their  venturous  part. 

Who  tamper  with  such  dangerous  art. 

But  this  for  faithful  truth  I  say : 
The  Ladye  by  the  altar  stood, 

Of  sable  velvet  her  array,  75 

And  on  her  head  a  crimson  hood, 
With  pearls  embroidered  and  entwined, 
Guarded  with  gold,  with  ermine  lined; 
A  merlin  sat  upon  her  wrist, 
Held  by  a  leash  of  silken  twist.  80 

54.   Owches.    Jewels.  5(5.  Miniver.    Ermine. 

79.   Merlin.    Sparrow-hawk,  often  carried  by  ladies  of  rank. 


120  LAY   OF  THE  LAST  iUNSTHEL.  canto  vi. 

VI. 

The  spousal  rites  were  ended  soon : 

'Twas  now  the  merry  hour  of  noon, 

And  in  the  lofty  arched  hall 

Was  spread  the  gorgeous  festival. 

Steward  and  squire,  with  heedful  haste,  85 

Marshalled  the  rank  of  every  guest; 

Pages,  with  ready  blade,  were  there. 

The  mighty  meal  to  carve  and  sliare : 

O'er  capon,  heron-shew,  and  crane, 

And  princely  peacock's  gilded  train,  90 

And  o'er  the  boar-head,  garnished  brave. 

And  cygnet  from  St.  Mary's  wave ; 

O'er  ptarmigan  and  venison. 

The  priest  had  spoke  his  benison. 

Then  rose  the  riot  and  the  din,  05 

Above,  beneath,  without,  within  ! 

For  from  the  lofty  balcony. 

Rung  trumpet,  shalm,  and  psaltery; 

Their  clanging  bowls  old  warriors  quaffed, 

Loudly  the}^  spoke,  and  loudly  laughed ;  100 

Whispered  young  knights,  in  tone  more  mild. 

To  ladies  fair,  and  ladies  smiled. 

The  hooded  hawks,  high  perched  on  beam. 

The  clamor  joined  with  whistling  scream, 

And  flapped  their  wings,  and  shook  their  bells,    105 

In  concert  with  the  stag-hounds'  yells. 

91.  Boar-head.  The  boar's  head  and  the  peacock  were  considered  the 
appropiiivtc  dislies  for  occasions  of  ceremony  in  chivah-ous  times. 

1)2.  Cygnet.  Swan.  St.  Mary's  Lake,  at  the  head  waters  of  the  Yarrow, 
was  noted  as  a  great  resort  for  wild  swans. 

98.   Shalm.    An  ancient  wind  instrument,  somewhat  like  the  clarionet. 


CANTO  VI.  LAY   OF    THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  121 

Round  go  tlie  flasks  of  ruddy  wine, 

From  Bordeaux,  Orleans,  or  the  Rhine ; 

Their  tasks  the  busy  sewers  ply, 

And  all  is  mirth  and  revelry.  no 

VII. 

The  Goblin  Page,  omitting  still 

No  opportunity  of  ill, 

Strove  now,  while  blood  ran  hot  and  high, 

To  rouse  debate  and  jealousy ; 

Till  Conrad,  lord  of  Wolfenstein,  115 

By  nature  fierce,  and  warm  with  wine, 

And  now  in  humor  highly  crossed. 

About  some  steeds  his  band  had  lost. 

High  words  to  words  succeeding  still, 

Smote,  with  his  gauntlet,  stout  Hunthill;  120 

A  hot  and  hardy  Rutlierford, 

Whom  men  called  Dickon  Draw-the-Sword. 

He  took  it  on  the  Page's  saye, 

Hunthill  had  driven  these  steeds  away. 

Then  Howard,  Home,  and  Douglas  rose,  125 

The  kindling  discord  to  compose  : 

Stern  Rutherford  right  little  said, 

But  bit  his  glove,  and  shook  his  head. — 

A  fortnight  thence,  in  Inglewood, 

Stout  Conrad,  cold,  and  drenched  in  blood,  iro 

Plis  bosom  gored  with  many  a  wound, 

Was  by  a  woodman's  lyme-dog  found; 

Unknown  the  manner  of  his  death, 

128.  Bit  Ms  glove.    To  bite  the  thumb  or  the  glove  was  considered  a 
pledge  of  nn)rttil  vengeance. 

132.   Lyme-dog.    A  dog  led  by  a  band  or  string. 


122  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTllEL.  canto  vi. 

Gone  was  his  brand,  both  sword  and  sheath ; 

But  ever  from  tliat  time,  'twas  said  135 

That  Dickon  wore  a  Cologne  blade. 

VIII. 

The  Dwarf,  who  feared  his  master's  eye 

Might  liis  foul  treacher}'  espie, 

Now  sought  the  castle  butter}', 

Where  many  a  yeoman,  bold  and  free,  140 

Revelled  as  merrily  and  well 

As  those  tliat  sat  in  lordly  selle. 

Watt  Tinlinn,  there,  did  frankly  raise 

The  pledge  to  Arthur  Fire-the-Braes ; 

And  he,  as  by  his  breeding  bound,  145 

To  Howard's  merry-men  sent  it  round. 

To  quit  them,  on  the  English  side, 

Red  Roland  Forster  loudly  cried, 

"A  deep  carouse  to  yon  fair  bride  I  " 

At  every  pledge,  from  vat  and  pail,  150 

Foamed  forth,  in  floods,  the  nut-brown  ale ; 

While  shout  the  riders  every  one. 

Such  day  of  mirth  ne'er  cheered  their  clan, 

Since  old  Buccleuch  the  name  did  gain. 

When  in  the  clench  the  buck  was  ta'en.  155 


IX. 

The  wily  Page,  with  vengeful  thought, 
Remembered  liini  of  Tinlinn's  yew, 

144.  Arthur  Fire-the-Braes.    One  of  the  Elliots  of  Liddesdale. 

154.  Buccleuch.  This  name  \v:is  given  to  one  of  the  early  niemhers  of 
that  family,  Ijy  the  king  of  Scotland,  tor  liis  great  skill  in  capturing,  in  a 
cleuch  or  valley,  a  buck  that  had  distanced  all  the  other  huulers. 


CANTO    VI. 


LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  123 


And  swore,  it  should  be  dearly. bought, 

That  ever  he  the  ariiow  drew. 
First,  he  the  yeoman  did  molest,  160 

With  bitter  gibe  and  taunting  jest ; 
Told,  how  he  fled  at  Solway  strife. 
And  how  Hob  Armstrong  cheered  his  wife. 
Then,  shunning  still  his  powerful  arm. 
At  unawares  he  wrought  him  harm  ;  165 

From  trencher  stole  his  choicest  cheer, 
Dashed  from  his  lips  his  can  of  beer. 
Then,  to  his  knee  sly  creeping  on, 
With  bodkin  pierced  him  to  the  bone : 
The  venomed  wound,  and  festering  joint,  170 

Long  after  rued  that  bodkin's  point. 
The  startled  yeoman  swore  and  spurned, 
And  board  and  flagons  overturned; 
Riot  and  clamor  wild  began ; 

Back  to  the  hall  the  urchin  ran  ;  175 

Took  in  a  darkling  nook  his  post. 
And  grinned  and  muttered,  "  Lost !  lost !  lost !  " 

X. 

By  this,  the  Dame,  lest  further  fray 

Should  mar  the  concord  of  the  day, 

Had  bid  the  Minstrels  tune  their  lay.  180 

And  first  stept  forth  old  Albert  Groeme, 

The  Minstrel  of  that  ancient  name  : 

Was  none  who  struck  the  harp  so  well, 

Within  the  land  Debateable ; 

Well  friended  too,  his  hardy  kin,  185 

184.  Land  Debateable.    Border  land  claimed  by  both  England  and 
Scotland. 


124  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTIIEL.  canto  vi. 

Whoever  lost,  were  sure  to  win  ; 

They  sought  the  beeves,  t^^at  made  their  broth, 

111  Scotland  and  in  England  both. 

In  homely  guise,  as  nature  bade. 

Ills  simple  song  the  Borderer  said.  190 

xr. 

ALBERT   GK.EME. 

It  was  an  English  ladye  bright, 

(The  sun  sliines  fair  on  Carlisle  wall,) 

And  she  would  marry  a  Scottish  knight, 
For  Love  will  still  be  lord  of  all. 

Blithely  they  saw  the  rising  sun,  195 

When  he  shone  fair  on  Carlisle  wall, 
But  they  were  sad  ere  day  was  done, 

Thouorh  Love  was  still  the  lord  of  all. 

Her  sire  gave  brooch  and  jewel  fine, 

Where  the  sun  shines  fair  on  Carlisle  wall ;  200 

Her  brother  gave  but  a  flask  of  wine. 

For  ire  that  Love  was  lord  of  all. 

For  she  had  lands,  both  meadow  and  lee, 
Where  the  sun  shiues  fair  on  Carlisle  wall. 

And  he  swore  her  deatli,  eie  he  would  see  205 

A  Scottish  knight  the  lord  of  all ! 

XIL 

That  wine  she  had  not  tasted  well, 

(The  sun  shines  fair  on  Carlisle  wall ; ) 

When  dead,  in  her  true  love's  arms,  she  fell. 

For  Love  was  still  the  lord  of  all.  210 


CANTO  VI.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  125 

He  pierced  her  brother  to  the  heart, 

Where  the  sun  shines  fair  on  Carlisle  wall;  — 

So  perish  all,  would  true  love  part. 
That  Love  may  still  be  lord  of  all ! 

And  then  he  took  the  cross  divine,  215 

Where  the  sun  shines  fair  on  Carlisle  wall, 

And  died  for  her  sake  in  Palestine, 
So  Love  was  still  the  lord  of  all. 


Now  all  ye  lovers  that  faithful  prove, 
(The  sun  shines  fair  on  Carlisle  wall,) 

Pray  for  their  souls,  who  died  for  love, 
For  Love  shall  still  be  lord  of  all  I 


XIIL 


XTV. 


220 


As  ended  Albert's  simple  lay, 

Arose  a  bard  of  loftier  port ; 
For  sonnet,  rhyme,  and  roundelay,  225 

Renowned  in  haughty  Henry's  court : 
There  rung  thy  harp,  unrivalled  long, 
Fitztraver  of  the  silver  song. 

The  gentle  Surrey  loved  his  lyre  — 

Who  has  not  heard  of  Surrey's  fame?  230 

His  was  the  hero's  soul  of  fire. 

And  his  the  bard's  immortal  name. 
And  his  was  love,  exalted  high 
By  all  the  glow  of  chivalry. 


They  sought,  together,  climes  afar,  235 

And  oft,  within  some  olive  grove, 


126  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  canto  vi. 

When  evening  came,  with  twinkling  star, 

They  sung  of  Surrey's  absent  love. 
His  step  the  Italian  peasant  staid. 

And  deemed,  that  spirits  from  on  high,  240 

Round  where  some  hermit  saint  was  laid, 

Were  breathing  heavenly  melody  ; 
So  sweet  did  heart  and  voice  combine 
To  praise  the  name  of  Geraldine. 


XV. 

Fitztraver !  O  what  tongue  may  say  245 

The  pangs  th}''  faithful  bosom  knew, 
When  Surrey,  of  the  deathless  lay, 

Ungrateful  Tudor's  sentence  slew? 
Regardless  of  the  tyrant's  frown, 

His  harp  called  wrath  and  vengeance  down.  250 

He  left,  for  Naworth's  iron  towers, 
Windsor's  green  glades,  and  courtly  bowers, 
And,  faithful  to  his  patron's  name. 
With  Howard  still  Fitztraver  came  ; 
Lord  William's  foremost  favorite  he,  255 

And  chief  of  all  his  minstrelsy. 

XVL 
FITZT  HAVER. 

'Twas  All-Souls'  eve,  and  Surrey's  heart  beat  high. 

He  heard  the  midnight-bell  with  anxious  start, 
Which  told  the  mystic  hour,  approaching  nigh, 

248.  Henry  Howard,  Earl  of   Surrey,  was  beheaded  on  Tower  Hill, 
1546,  by  order  of  Henry  VIII. 


CANTO  VI.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  127 

When  wise  Cornelius  promised,  by  his  art,        2i;o 
To  show  to  him  the  hidye  of  his  lieart. 

Albeit  betwixt  them  roared  the  ocean  grim; 
Yet  so  the  sage  had  hight  to  play  his  part, 

That  he  should  see  her  form  in  life  and  limb, 
And  mark,  if  still  she  loved,  and  still  she  thought 
of  him.  265 

xvir. 

Dark  was  the  vaulted  room  of  gramarye, 

To  which  the  wizard  led  the  gallant  knight, 
Save,  that  before  a  mirror,  huge  and  high, 

A  hallowed  taper  shed  a  glimmering  light 
On  mystic  implements  of  magic  might,  270 

On  cross,  and  character,  and  talisman. 
And  almagest,  and  altar,  nothing  bright: 

For  fitful  was  the  Instre,  pale  and  Avan, 
As  watch-liglit,  by  the  bed  of  some  departing  man. 

XVIII. 

But  soon,  within  that  mirror,  huge  and  high,         275 
Was  seen  a  self-emitted  light  to  gleam : 

And  forms  upon  its  breast  the  earl  'gan  spv. 
Cloudy  and  indistinct,  as  feverish  dream  ; 

Till,  slow  arranging,  and  defined,  they  seem 

To  form  a  lordly  and  a  lofty  room,  280 

Part  lighted  by  a  lamp  with  silver  beam, 

260.  Wise  Cornelius.  Cornelius  Aso-'ippa,  the  celebrated  alchemist.  He 
is  said  to  have  shown  to  Sui-rey,  by  his  magic  art,  a  vision  of  his  lady  love, 
Geraldine. 

'J7'2.  Almagest.  A  celebrated  ancient  book  containing  problems  in 
geometry  and  astrology,  drawn  up  by  Ptolemy. 


128  LAV    OF   THE   LAST    MINSTREL.  canto  vi. 

Placed  l)v  a  couch  of  Agra's  silken  loom, 
And  part  by  moonshine  pale,  and  part  was  hid  in 
gloom. 

XIX. 

Fair  all  the  pageant — but  how  passing  fair 

The  slender  form,  which  lay  on  couch  of  Indl  oj^ 
O'er  her  white  bosom  stra}ed  her  hazel  hair. 

Pale  her  dear  cheek,  as  if  for  love  she  pined ; 
All  in  her  night-robe  loose,  she  lay  reclined, 

And,  pensive,  read  from  tablet  eburnine 
Some    strain,   that    seemed    her    inmost    soul    to 
find :  —  .  o<K) 

That  favored  strain  was  Surrey's  raptured  line. 
That  fair  and  lovely  form,  the  Ladye  Geraldiue. 

XX. 

Slow  rolled  the  clouds  upon  the  lovely  form. 

And  swept  the  goodly  vision  all  away  — 
So  royal  envy  rolled  the  murky  storm  -jds 

O'er  my  beloved  Master's  glorious  da}'. 
Thou  jealous,  ruthless  tyrant  I  Heaven  repay 

On  thee,  and  on  thy  children's  latest  line. 
The  wild  caprice  of  thy  despotic  sway, 

The  gory  bridal  bed,  the  plundered  shrine,         300 
The  murdered  Surrey's  blood,  the  tears  of  Geraldine. 

XXI. 

Both  Scots,  and  Southern  chiefs,  prolong 
Applauses  of  Fitztraver's  song  : 

289.  Eburnine.     Ivory. 


CANTO  VI.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  129 


305 


These  hated  Henry's  name  as  death, 

And  tlTose  still  held  the  ancient  faith. — 

Then,  from  his  seat,  with  lofty  air, 

Rose  Harold,  bard  of  brave  St.  Clair ; 

St.  Clair,  who,  feasting  high  at  Home, 

Had  with  that  Lord  to  battle  come. 

Harold  was  born  where  restless  seas  310 

Howl  round  the  storm-swept  Orcades; 

Where  erst  St.  Clairs  held  princely  sway, 

O'er  isle  and  islet,  strait  and  bay;  — 

Still  nods  their  palace  to  its  fall. 

Thy  pride  and  sorrow,  fair  Kirkwall! —  315 

Thence  oft  he  marked  fierce  Pentland  rave, 

As  if  grim  Odin  rode  her  wave ; 

And  watched,  the  whilst,  with  visage  pale. 

And  throbbing  heart,  the  struggling  sail; 

For  all  of  wonderful  and  wild  32o 

Had  rapture  for  the  lonely  child. 

XXII. 

And  much  of  wild  and  wonderful, 

In  these  rude  isles,  might  fancy^  cull ; 

For  thither  came,  in  times  afar. 

Stern  Lochlin's  sons  of  roving  war,  325 

The  Norsemen,  trained  to  spoil  and  blood. 

Skilled  to  prepare  the  raven's  food ; 

Kings  of  the  main  their  leaders  brave, 

Their  barks  the  dragons  of  the  Avave. 

315.  Kirkwall.  Built  by  the  St.  Clairs  while  Earls  of  Orkney  ;  disman- 
tled about  1615,  on  account  of  being  garrisoned  against  the  government. 

31(i.  Pentland.    Pentland  Firth. 

320.  Dragons  of  the  wave.  The  Scandinavian  Vikings,  or  Sea-rovers, 
often  liad  a  carved  dragon  for  the  figure-head  of  their  ships. 


130  I-^-^"    OF   TllK    LAST   MIXSTKEL.  canto  vi. 

And  there,  in  many  a  stormy  vale,  330 

The  Scald  had  told  his  wondrous  tale; 

And  many  a  Runic  column  high 

Had  witnessed  grim  idolatry. 

And  thus  had  Harold,  in  his  youth, 

Learned  many  a  Saga's  rhyme  uncouth,  3:35 

Of  that  Sea-Snake,  tremendous  curled. 

Whose  monstrous  circle  girds  the  world ; 

Of  those  dread  Maids,  whose  hideous  yell 

MatUlens  the  battle's  bloody  swell ; 

Of  chiefs,  who,  guided  through  the  gloom  340 

By  the  pale  death-lights  of  the  tomb, 

Ransacked  the  graves  of  warriors  old. 

Their  falchions  wrenched  from  corpses'  hold, 

Waked  the  deaf  tomb  with  war's  alarms, 

And  bade  the  dead  arise  to  arms!  -.'a; 

With  war  and  wonder  all  on  flame, 

To  Roslin's  bovvers  young  Harold  came. 

Where,  by  sweet  glen  and  greenwood  tree, 

He  learned  a  milder  minstrelsy ; 

Yet  something  of  the  Northern  spell  350 

Mixed  with  the  softer  numbers  w^ell. 


331.  Scald.    Tho  hard  of  the  Norsemen. 

332.  Runic  column.     (Jolumn  with  a  Norse  inscription. 

33(i.  Sen-Snake.  lln!  lSli(l,i,'ar(l  serpent  that  tlie  Norsemen  supposed 
enciri'k'd  the  world,  holdinj;  his  tail  in  his  mouth. 

.•{;!S.  Dread  Maids.  The  three  maidens,  who,  according  to  Norse  my- 
tholojiy,  were  sent  hy  Odin,  the  All-Father,  to  choose  wlio  were  to  die  in 
hattle. 

'M2.  Ransacked  the  graves.  The  Norse  warriors  were  usually  hnrir-d 
with  their  weapons.  Many  of  these  weai)ons  were  of  great  value,  ;ind 
tenipt('d  i)lunderers,  who,  as  tradition  runs,  had  fierce  battles  with  the 
ghosts  of  the  dead. 


CANTO  VI.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MiXSTllEL.  lol 

xxiir. 

HAROLD. 

O  listen,  listen,  ladies  gay  ! 

No  haughty  feat  of  arms  I  tell : 
Soft  is  the  note,  and  sad  the  lav, 

That  mourns  the  lovely  Rosabelle.  355 

—  "  jNIoor,  moor  the  barge,  ye  gallant  crew  ! 

And,  gentle  ladye,  deign  to  stay  ! 
Rest  thee  in  Castle  Ravensheuch, 

Nor  tempt  the  stormy  firth  to-day. 

"The  blackening  wave  is  edged  with  wliite ;         .-ico 
To  inch  and  rock  the  sea-mews  flv ; 

The  fishers  have  heard  the  Water  Sprite, 
Whose  screams  forebode  that  wreck  is  nigh. 

"Last  night  the  gifted  seer  did  view 

A  wet  shrojjd  swathed  round  ladye  gay ;  305 

Then  stay  thee.  Fair,  in  Ravensheuch: 

Wh}'  cross  the  gloomy  firth  to-day  ?  " 

"  'Tis  not  because  Lord  Lindesay's  heir 

To-night  at  Roslin  leads  the  ball, 
But  that  my  Ladye-mother  there  370 

Sits  lonely  in  her  castle-hall. 

"  'Tis  not  because  the  ring  they  ride. 
And  Lindesay  at  the  ring  rides  well, 

355.  Rosabelle.    This  was  a  family  name  in  the  house  of  St.  Clair. 
358.  Castle  Ravensheuch.     A  castle  belonging  to  the  St.  Clairs,  on  a 
steep  eras  overlooking  the  Firth  of  Forth. 
361.  Inch.     Isle. 


132  LAY    or   THE    LAST    Ml^"STl:EL.  (.amo  vi. 

But  that  my  sire  the  wine  will  chijie, 

If  'tis  not  filled  by  Rosabelle."  375 


XXIV. 

O'er  Roslin  all  that  dreary  night 

A  wondrous  blaze  was  seen  to  gleam  ; 

'Twas  broader  than  the  watch-fire  light, 
And  redder  than  the  bright  moonbeam. 

It  glared  on  Roslin's  castled  rock,  3!;0 

It  ruddied  all  the  co])se-wood  glen  ; 

'Twas  seen  from  Dryden's  groves  of  oak, 
And  seen  from  caverned  Hawthornden. 

Seemed  all  on  fire  that  chapel  proud, 

Where  Roslin's  chiefs  uncoffined  lie ;  385 

Each  Baron,  for  a  sable  shroud. 

Sheathed  in  his  iron  panopl}'. 

•        Seemed  all  on  fire  within,  around. 
Deep  sacristy  and  altar's  pale ; 
Shone  every  pillar  foliage-bound,  3<)0 

And  glimmered  all  the  dead  men's  mail. 

Blazed  battlement  and  pinnethigh. 

Blazed  every  rose-carved  buttress  fair—   ' 

So  still  they  blaze,  when  fate  is  nigh 

The  lordly  line  of  high  St.  Clair.  305 

37n.  Roslin.    Roslin  Castle,  seven  miles  southeast  of  Edinburgh. 

384.  Seemed  all  on  fire.  IJosliu  chapel  is  said  to  appear  on  fire  at  the 
deatli  of  ;iiiy  of  the  St.  Cliiirs. 

;W7.  Iron  panoply.  The  Barons  of  Roslin,  the  St.  Clairs,  were  buried 
in  their  armor  in  a  vault  beneath  the  chapel  floor. 


CANTO  VI. 


LAY  OF  THE  LAST  MINSTREL.         133 


There  are  twenty  of  Roslin's  barons  bold 
Lie  buried  within  that  proud  chapelle ; 

Each  one  the  holy  vault  doth  hold  — 
But  the  sea  holds  lovely  Rosabelle. 

And  each  St.  Clair  was  buried  there,  4on 

With  candle,  with  book,  and  with  knell ; 

But  the  sea-caves  rung,  and  the  wild  winds  sung. 
The  dirge  of  lovely  Rosabelle. 

XXV. 

So  sweet  was  Harold's  piteous  lay, 

Scarce  marked  the  guests  the  darkened  hall,     405 
Though,  long  before  the  sinking  day, 

A  wondrous  shade  involved  them  all: 
It  was  not  eddying  mist  or  fog. 
Drained  by  the  sun  from  fen  or  bog; 

Of  no  eclipse  had  sages  told  ;  4io 

And  yet,  as  it  came  on  apace. 
Each  one  could  scarce  his  neighbor's  face. 

Could  scarce  his  own  stretched  hand,  behold. 
A  secret  horror  checked  the  feast, 
And  chilled  the  soul  of  every  guest ;  415 

Even  the  high  Dame  stood  half  aghast, 
She  knew  some  evil  on  the  blast ; 
The  elfish  Page  fell  to  the  ground. 
And, shuddering,  muttered, "  F'ound !  found  I  found  I " 

XXVI, 

Then  sudden  through  the  darkened  air    .  420 

A  flash  of  lightning  came  ; 
So  broad,  so  briglit,  so  red  the  glare. 


134  LAY    OF   THE   LAST  MINSTREL.  <  anto  vi. 

The  castle  seemed  on  flame  ;  * 
Glanced  eveiy  rafter  of  the  hall, 
Glanced  every  shield  upon  the  wall;  4-25 

Each  trophied  beam,  each  sculptured  stone, 
Were  instant  seen,  and  instant  gone; 
Full  through  the  guests'  bedazzled  band 
Resistless  flashed  the  levin-brand, 
And  filled  the  hall  with  smouldering  smoke,         i^o 
As  on  the  elfish  Page  it  broke. 

It  broke,  with  thunder  long  and  loud, 

Disnia3^ed  the  brave,  a})palled  the  proud. 
From  sea  to  sea  the  larum  rung ; 

On  Berwick  wall,  and  at  Carlisle  withal,  ^-.^ 

To  arms  the  startled  warders  sprung. 
When  ended  was  the  dreadful  roar. 
The  elvish  Dwarf  was  seen  no  more! 

xxvii. 

Some  heard  a  voice  in  Branksome  Hall, 

Some  saw  a  sight  not  seen  by  all ;  440 

That  dreadful  voice  was  heard  by  some. 

Cry,  with  loud  summons,  "  Gylrin,  come  !  " 

And  on  the  spot  where  burst  the  brand, 
Just  where  the  Page  had  flung  him  down. 

Some  saAV  an  arm,  and  some  a  hand,  445 

And  some  the  waving  of  a  gown. 
The  guests  in  silence  i)rayed  and  shook. 
And  terror  dimmed  each  lofty  look: 
But  none  of  all  the  astonished  train 
Was  so  dismayed  as  Dcloraine  ;  450 

429.   Levin-brand.    Tlmutkrbolt. 


CANTd  VI.  LAY    OF    THE    LAST   MINSTEEL.  135 

His  blood  did  freeze,  his  brain  did  burn, 
'Twas  feared  his  mind  would  ne'er  return  ; 

For  he  was  speechless,  ghastl}',  wan. 

Like  him,  of  whom  the  story  ran, 

Who  spoke  the  spectre-hound  in  Man.  455 

At  length,  by  fits,  he  darkly  told, 
"With  broken  hint,  and  shuddering  cold  — 

That  he  had  seen  right  certainly, 
A  shape  tvith  amice  ivrapped  around. 
With  a  wrought  Spanish  baldric  bound,  mo 

Like  a  pilgrim  froin  beyond  the  sea  ; 
And  knew  —  but  how,  it  mattered  not  — 
It  was  the  wizard,  Michael  Scott. 

XXVIII. 

The  anxious  crowd,  with  horror  pale. 

All  trembling,  heard  the  wondrous  tale ;  4(55 

No  sound  was  made,  no  word  was  spoke, 

Till  noble  Angus  silence  broke  ; 
And  he  a  solemn  sacred  plight 

Did  to  St.  Bryde  of  Douglas  make, 

That  he  a  pilgrimage  would  take  470 

To  Melrose  Abbey,  for  the  sake 
Of  Michael's  restless  sprite. 
Then  each,  to  ease  his  troubled  breast. 
To  some  blessed  saint  his  prayers  addressed  — 
Some  to  St.  Modan  made  their  vows,  475 

Some  to  St.  Mary  of  the  Lowes, 

455.  Spectre-hound.  The  Manthe  Doog,  a  black  spaniel,  supposed  to 
haunt  Peel  Castle  in  tlie  Isle  of  ]Man. 

469.  St.  Bryde  of  Douglas.  The  favorite  saint  of  the  house  of  Douglas, 
and  of  the  Earl  of  Angus  in  particular. 


136  LAY    OF   THE   LAST    MINSTIIEL.  canto  vi. 

Some  to  the  Holy  Rood  of  Lisle, 

Some  to  our  Lady  of  the  Isle ; 

Each  did  his  patron  witness  make, 

That  he  such  pilgrimage  would  take.  4Ro 

And  monks  should  sing,  and  bells  should  toll, 

All  for  the  weal  of  Michael's  soul. 

While  vows  were  ta'en,  and  prayers  were  prayed, 

'Tis  said  the  noble  Dame,  dismayed. 

Renounced,  for  aye,  dark  magic's  aid.  4R5 

XXIX. 

Naught  of  the  bridal  will  I  tell. 
Which  after  in  short  space  befell ; 
Nor  how  brave  sons  and  daughters  fair 
Blessed  Teviot's  Flower  and  Cranstoun's  heir; 
After  such  dreadful  scene,  'twere  vain  490 

To  wake  the  note  of  mirth  again ; 

More  meet  it  were  to  mark  the  day 
Of  penitence  and  prayer  divine, 

When  pilgrim-chiefs,  in  sad  array, 

Sought  Melrose'  holy  shrine.  4!)-) 

XXX. 

With  naked  foot,  and  sackcloth  vest, 
And  arms  enfolded  on  his  breast, 

Did  every  pilgrim  go  ; 
The  standers-by  might  hear  uneath. 
Footstep,  or  voice,  or  high-drawn  breath,  rm 

Throu<Th  all  the  lengthened  row : 
No  lordly  look,  no  martial  stride, 

490.   Uneath.     Scaroely. 


CANTO  VI.  LAY    OF    THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  137 

Gone  was  their  glory,  sunk  their  pride, 

Forgotten  their  renown  ; 
Silent  and  slow,  like  ghosts,  they  glide  505 

To  the  high  altar's  hallowed  side. 

And  there  they  kneeled  them  down; 
Above  the  suppliant  chieftains  wave 
The  banners  of  departed  brave  ; 
Beneath  the  lettered  stones  were  laid  510 

The  ashes  of  their  fathers  dead  ; 
From  many  a  garnished  niche  around. 
Stern  saints,  and  tortured  martyrs,  frowned. 

XXXI. 

And  slow  up  the  dim  aisle  afar. 

With  sable  cowl  and  scapular,  515 

And  snow-white  stoles,  in  order  due, 

The  holy  Fathers,  two  and  two, 

In  long  procession  came  ; 
Taper,  and  host,  and  book  they  bare, 
And  holy  banner,  flourished  fair  520 

With  the  Redeemer's  name : 
Above  the  prostrate  pilgrim  band 
The  mitred  Abbot  stretched  his  hand. 

And  blessed  them  as  they  kneeled : 
With  holy  cross  he  signed  them  all,  525 

And  prayed  they  might  be  sage  in  hall, 

And  fortunate  in  field. 
Then  mass  was  sung,  and  prayers  were  said, 
And  solemn  requiem  for  the  dead  ; 
And  bells  tolled  out  their  mighty  peal,  530 

For  the  departed  spirit's  weal ; 
And  ever  in  the  office  close 


138  LAY    OF    THE   LAST    MINSTREL.  canto  vi. 

The  hymn  of  intercession  rose  ,- 

And  far  the  echoing  aisles  prolong 

The  awful  burden  of  the  song,  —  535 

Dies  iuje,  dies  illa, 
solvet  sieclum  in  favilla, 

While  the  pealing  organ  -rung ; 

Were  it  meet  with  sacred  strain 

To  close  my  lay,  so  light  and  vain,  540 

Thus  the  holy  Fathers  sung. 

HYMN    FOR   THE   DEAD. 

That  day  of  wrath,  that  dreadful  day, 

When  heaven  and  earth  shall  pass  away. 

What  power  shall  be  the  sinner's  stay? 

How  shall  he  meet  that  dreadful  day?  545 

When,  shrivelling  like  a  parched  scroll. 
The  flaming  heavens  together  roll ; 
,^  When  louder  yet,  and  yet  more  dread, 

Swells  the  high  trump  that  wakes  the  dead ; 

O  I  on  that  day,  that  wrathful  day,  550 

When  man  to  judgment  wakes  from  clay, 
Be  Thou  the  trembling  sinner's  stny. 
Though  heaven  and  earth  shall  pass  away  ! 


Hushed  is  the  haip  —  the  Minstrel  gone. 

And  did  he  wander  forth  alone  ?  ^  555 

Alone,  in  indigence  and  age, 

To  linger  out  his  pilgrimage  ? 

No  —  close  beneath  proud  Newark's  tower, 

Arose  the  Minstrel's  lowly  bower  ; 


CANTO  VI.  LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL.  139 

A  simple  liut;  but  there  was  seen  5(50 

The  little  garden  hedged  with  green, 

Tiie  clieerfid  hearth,  and  lattice  clean. 

There  sheltered  wanderers,  by  the  blaze, 

Oft  heard  tiie  tale  of  other  days; 

For  much  he  loved  to  ope  his  door,  565 

And  give  the  aid  he  begged  before. 

So  passed  the  winter's  day;  but  still. 

When  summer  smiled  on  sweet  Bowhill, 

And  Julj^'s  eve,  with  balmy  breath. 

Waved  the  blue-bells  on  Newark-heath  ;  570 

When  throstles  sung  in  Harehead-shaw, 

And  corn  was  green  on  Carterhaugh, 

And  flourished,  broad,  Blaclcaudro''s  oak. 

The  aged  Harper's  soul  awoke  ! 

Then  would  he  sing  achievements  high,  575 

And  circumstance  of  chivalry. 

Till  the  rapt  traveller  would  stay, 

Forgetful  of  the  closiug  day ; 

And  noble  youths,  the  strain  to  liear, 

Forsook  the  hunting  of  the  deer  ;  580 

And  Yarrow,  as  he  rolled  along. 

Bore  burden  to  the  Minstrel's  song. 


IJSTDEX  TO   ISrOTES. 


[Thk  Numbers  refer  to  Pages.] 


Aill,  26. 

Acton,  51. 

Acre,  81. 

A  Home,  97. 

Almagest,  127. 

Almayne,  80. 

Amice,  38. 

Ancram,  86. 

Anna,  Dncl^ss  of  Buccleuch,  8. 

Arthur  Fire-the-Braes,  122. 

Aventayle,  31. 

Baldric,  38. 
Bale,  62. 
Bandelier,  59. 
Ban-dog,  57. 
Barbican,  71. 
Barded,  26. 
Barnhill's  Bed,  25. 
Bartizan,  82. 
Beacon,  (il. 
Beakers,  100. 
Beaver.  109. 
Bellenden,  78. 
Belted  Will  Howard,  72. 
Bethune,  18. 
Better  knee,  81. 
Bilboa  blade,  104. 
Bill,  81. 
Billliope,  71. 
Bit  his  glove,  121. 
Black-mail,  65. 
Blanche  Lion,  89. 
Bloody  Heart,  97. 


Blood-hound,  113= 
Boar-head,  120. 
Book-bosomed  j^riest,  52. 
Book  of  Might,  38. 
Bowne,  64. 
Brand,  25. 

Branksome  Tower,  13. 
Buccleuch,  122. 
Buff,  104. 
By  oath,  86. 

Cairn,  64. 

Car,  16. 

Carter,  41. 

Castle  Ravensheuch ,  131. 

Cheviot,  41. 

Chief  of  Otterburn,  .'54. 

Christian  gore,  .53. 

Clarence  Plantagenet,  97. 

Claymore,  107. 

Corbells,  34. 

Cornelius,  127. 

Corslet,  52. 

Cowl,  38. 

Cranstoun,  17. 

Crescent  and  Star,  22. 

Cresset,  62. 

Crest,  50. 

Culver,  82. 

Cumberland,  23. 

Curfew,  27. 

Cushat-dove,  46. 

Cygnet,  120. 


142 


LAY   OF   THE   LAST   MINSTREL. 


David  I,  "0. 
Di;j:ht,  15. 

Driifjdiis  of  the  wave,  129. 
Dreail  Maids.  i:'.0. 
Drove  my  cows,  72. 
Diinilieiiden  Law,  64. 
Duiulce,  09. 
Dunediii,  l(j. 

Earn,  CA. 
Eburiiiiie,  128. 
Eildoii  liill.s,  36. 
Eld,  44. 
Einprize,  8fi. 
E.seahide,  81. 
Eske,  22. 

Fain.  45. 
Falchion.  57. 
Falcon,  82. 
Fasten!  night,  72. 
Fellest,  ;«). 
Fence,  57. 

Fleeting  wraith,  112. 
FU'inen's  firth,  K"). 
ricnr-de-]ys,  34. 
Flower  of  Yarrow,  74. 
Foray.  .•?2. 
Francis  Scott,  8. 

Galliard,  75. 
Gauntlet,  83. 
(iilsland,  84. 
Glaive,  82. 
Cilaniour,  53. 
Gorget,  108. 
Gorse,  44. 
Gra-nif!.  70. 
Grainarye,  54. 
Granierey,  58. 

llackhiiteer,  59. 
Hag,  71. 
Hairihee,  24. 


Halidon,  27. 
Harried,  85. 
Hazeldean,  25. 
His    form     no 

traced,  18. 
Henry  Howard,  120. 
Heriot,  75. 

Incli,  131. 

Iron  panoply,  132. 

Irthing,  81. 

Jack,  51. 

James  Douglas,  34. 
Jed  wood-axe,  15. 
.led wood,  91. 
Jennet,  33. 

Keep,  64. 

Kerr,  16. 

Kirkwall,  129. 

Kirtle,  57. 

Knighthood  he  took,  86. 

Kniglit  of  Liddesdale,  ;i4. 

Knights  of  fame,  14. 

Land  Debateahle,  123. 
Leven,  81. 
Leven-hrand,  134. 
Leven  Clans,  (i5. 
Liddel,  22. 
Lion  argent,  84. 
Lists,  91,  110. 
Litherlie,  45. 
Lord  Walter,  15. 
T,otliian,  64. 
Lurclicr,  55. 
Lyke-wake,  87. 
Lyme-dog,  121. 

March-man,  27. 
March  treason,  85. 
Melrose,  23. 
Mercenaries,  81. 


darkening    shadow 


INDEX. 


143 


Merlin,  119. 
Michael  Scott,  35. 
Mickle,  79. 
Midnight  lauds,  27. 
Mighty  dead,  23. 
Miniver,  119. 
Minto's  crags,  25. 
Moat-hill  mound,  24. 
jNIorion,  71. 
Morsing-horns,  81. 
Moss-ti-oopers,  21. 
Mot,  54. 

Mount  for  Branksome,  62. 
Murdieston,  74. 
Mutual  pilgrimage,  16. 

Need-fire,  63. 

No  darkening  shadow,  18. 

Notre  Dame,  36. 

Oriel,  34. 

Ousenara,  92,  101. 
Owches,  119. 

Padua,  18. 

Partisan,  82. 

Paynim, 35. 

^eel,  24. 

.^en,  61. 

Pensils,  87. 

Pentland,  120. 

'ercy's  best  blood-hounds,  22. 

^ortcullis,  118. 

Prescience,  91. 

Pursuivant,  84. 

3uatre-feuille,  31. 

Ransacked  the  graves,  130. 
Roman  way,  25. 
Rosabelle,  131. 
Roslin,  132. 
Ruberslaw,  88. 
Runic  column,  130. 
Rushy  floor,  13. 


Salamanca,  35. 

Salved  the  splinter,  60. 

Scald,  130. 

Scathe,  106. 

Scaur,  18. 

Scottish  Monarch,  35. 

Sea-Snake,  130. 

Seemed  all  on  fire,  132. 

Seething  pitch,  83. 

Seignory,  75. 

Seneschal,  62. 

Serf,  71. 

Seven  spears  of  Wedderburn,  97. 

Shalm,  120. 

Sheaf,  57. 

Sheeling,  53. 

Slogan,  16. 

Snafle,  spur,  and  spear,  113. 

Soltra,  64. 

Souls'  repose,  31. 

Spectre-hound,  135. 

Spell,  .55. 

St.  Bryde  of  Douglas,  135. 

Swith,  84. 

Tarn,  64. 

Tire,  59. 

The  jovial  Harper,  91. 

Thirlestane,  73. 

Threatened      Branksome's      lordly 

towers,  15. 
To  gain  his  spurs,  82. 
Train,  54. 
Trysting-place,  45. 
Twanged  the  yew,  71. 
Tynedale  men,  65. 
Tynedale  snatchers,  70. 

Uneath,  136. 
Unicorn,  22. 

Visor,  108. 


144 


LAY   OF   THE   LAST    MINSTIIEL. 


AValter  Scott,  Earl  of  Buccleuch,  8, 15. 

Walter  Scott  of  Harden,  74. 

Wardeu  raid,  71. 

Wardens,  59. 

Warder,  62. 

Warrison,  85. 

Wassel,  100. 


Weapon-schaw,  88. 

Weeu,  43. 

Wliiugers,  99. 

Wight,  87. 

William  of  Deloraine,  22. 

Wimple,  105. 


HIGHER   ENGLISH. 


13 


Hudson's  Exjjurgated  Shakespeare. 

For  Schools,  Clubs,  and  Families.  Revised  and  enlarged  Editions  of 
twenty-three  Plays.  Carefully  expurgated,  with  Explanatory  Notes  at 
the  bottom  of  the  page,  and  Critical  Notes  at  the  end  of  each  volume. 
By  H.  N.  Hudson,  LL.D.,  Editor  of  The  Harvard  Shakespeare.  One 
play  iu  each  volume.  Square  IGmo.  Varying  in  size  from  128-253 
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reasonableness  of  the  price. 


Oliver  Wendell  Holmes:  An  edi- 
tion of  any  play  of  Shakespeare's  to 
which  Mr.  Hudson's  name  is  affixed 
does  not  need  a  Hue  from  anybody  to 
commend  it. 

Cyrus  Northrop,  Prof,  of  English 
Literature,  Yale  Coller/e:  They  are 
convenient  in  form  and  edited  by 
Hudson,  —  two  good  things  which  I 
can  see  at  a  glance. 

Hiram  Corson,  Prof,  of  Rhet.  and 
Eng.  Lit.,  Cornell  University :  I  con- 
sider them  altogether  excellent.  The 
notes  give  all  the  aid  needed  for  an 
understanding  of  the  text,  without 
waste  and  distraction  of  the  student's 
mind.  The  iutroductorj^  matter  to 
the  several  plays  is  especially  worthy 
of  approbation.    {Jan.  28,  1887.) 

C.  F.  P.  Bancroft,  Prin.  of  Phil- 
lips Academy,  Andover,  Mass.:  Mr. 
Hudson's  appreciation  of  Shake- 
speare amounted  to  genius.  His 
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tion.   He  leads  the  pupil  into  the 


very  mind  and  heart  of  "  the  thou- 

sand-souled  Shakespeare." 

Byron  Groce,  Master  in  Public 
Latin  School,  Boston:  The  amended 
text  is  satisfactory;  the  typography 
is  excellent;  the  notes  are  brief,  al- 
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put  where  they  will  do  the  most  good ; 
the  introductions  are  vigorous,  in- 
spiriting, keenly  and  soundly  critical, 
and  very  attractive  to  boys, especially 
on  account  of  their  directness  and 
warmth,  for  all  boys  like  enthusi- 
asm.    {Jan.  22,  1887.) 

C.  T.  Winchester,  Prof,  of  English. 
WesleyanUniversity  :  The  notes  and 
comments  in  the  school  edition  are 
admirably  fitted  to  the  need  of  the 
student,  removing  his  difficulties  by 
stimulating  his  interest  and  quicken^ 
ing  his  perception.     {Feb.  10,  1887.) 

A.  C.  Perkins,  Prin.  of  Ac'clphi 
Academy,  Brooklyn:  In  the  prepa- 
ration of  the  School  Shakespeare, 
Mr.  Hudson  met  fully  the  capacities 
and  needs  of  students  in  our  schools 
and  colleges.    {Feb.  i,  1887.) 


14  HIGHER   ENGLISH. 

The  series  consists  of  the  twen iy-three  plays  enumerated  below 

TTe  furnish  of  the  Old  Edition,  in  paper  covers,  the  plays  starred  in  the 
following  list  (Mailing  Price,  20 cents  ;  Introduction,  15  cents):  — 

♦A  Midsummer-Night's  Dream.^  *Henry  the  Fifth.- 

*The  Merchant  of  Venice.'  *Henry  the  Eighth." 

*Much  Ado  About  Nothing.^  *Romeo  and  Juliet.^ 

*As  You  Like  It.i  *JuUus  Caesar.i 

Twelfth  Night.i  *Hamlet.i 

*The  Tempest.'-  *King  Lear.2 

The  Winter's  Tale.3  *Macbeth.2 

King  John.  Antony  and  Cleopatra.' 

Richard  Second.  *Othello.3 
Richard  Third.-  Cymbeline.^ 

♦Henry  Fourth,  Part  First.*  *Coriolanus.3 
Henry  Fourth,  Part  Second.* 

Hudson's  Three-Volume  Shakespeare. 

For  Schools,  Families,  and  Clnbs.  With  Introductions  and  Notes  on 
each  Play.  12mo.  Cloth.  (VX-iilS  pages  per  volume.  Mailing  Price, 
per  volume,  .1?1.40;  Introduction,  $\.25. 

The  plays  included  in  the  three  volumes  respectively  are  indicated  by 
figures  in  the  above  list. 

The  Harvard  Edition  of  Shakespeare's  Complete 

Works. 

By  Hexry  N.  Hudson,  LL.D.,  .\uthor  of  the  Life,  Art,  and  Charnrtcrs 
of  Shakespeare,  Kditor  of  Seliool  Shakespeare,  etc.  In  Tweni;i  Vulumes; 
12mo  ;  two  plays  in  each  volume  ;  also  in  Ten  Volumes,  of  four  plays 
each. 


Twenty-vol.  edition,  cloth 
Half-calf. 


RETAIL   PRICES. 

$25.00         Ten-vol.  edition,  cloth     . 
55.00             Half-calf.        .        . 

.   $20.00 
40.00 

'  Bayers  should  he  careful  in  orderinfj  not  to  confound  the  Har- 
vard Shakespeare  with  an  Old  Edition  made  in  1851,  and  sold 
under  another  name, 

rillllS  is  pre-eminently  the  edition  for  liliraries,  students,  and 
general  readers.     Tlie  type,  paper,  and  binding  are  attractive 
and  superior,  and  the  notes  represent  the  editor's  ripest  thought. 


HIGHER    ENGLISH. 


15 


An  obvious  merit  of  this  edition  is,  that  each  volume  has  two 
Bets  of  notes;  one  mainly  devoted  to  explaining  the  text,  and 
placed  at  the  foot  of  the  page ;  the  other  mostly  occupied  with 
matters  of  textual  comment  and  criticism,  and  printed  at  the  end 
of  each  play.  This  arrangement  is  particularly  suited  to  the  con- 
venience of  the  general  student,  who  does  not  wish  to  hunt  for  an 
explanation ;  and  to  the  wants  of  the  special  student,  who  desires 
extended  discussion  of  a'  difficulty. 


E.  P.  Whipple,  The  Noted  Critic : 
Hudsou's  is  lae  most  tboughtlul  and 
intelligent  interpretative  criticism 
whicli  has,  during  the  present  cen- 
tury, been  written,  either  in  English 
or  German. 

N.  Y.  Evening  Express :  The  most 
satisfactory  and  complete  edition  we 
have. 


N.  Y.  Tribune:  As  an  interpreter 
of  Shakespeare,  imbued  with  the 
vital  essence  of  the  great  English 
dramatist,  and  equally  qualified  by 
insight  and  study  to  penetrate  the 
deepest  significance  of  his  writings, 
it  would  be  difficult  to  name  an  Eng- 
lish or  American  scholar  who  can  be 
compared  with  the  editor  of  this 
edition. 


Hudson's  Life,   Art,   and  Characters  of  Shake- 

speare  (Revised  Edition,  1882). 

By  Hexry  N.  Hudson,  LL.D.,  Editor  cf  TJie  Harvard  Shakespeare,  etc. 
In  2  vols.  12mo.  iKi!)  pages.  Uniform  in  size  with  The  Harvard  IShake- 
speare,  and  matches  it  in  the  following  bindings  :  — 


Cloth 
Half-calf 


Retail  Price,  $4.00  per  set. 
"  "         8.00       " 


rpiIESE  two  volimies  contain:  The  Life  of  Shakespeare;  An 
Historical  Sketch  of  the  Origin  and  Growth  of  the  Drama  in 
England;  Shakespeare's  Contemporaries;  Shakespeare's  ^4 r?,  discus- 
sing under  this  head,  Natm-e  and  Use  of  Art,  Principles  of  Art, 
Dramatic  Composition,  Characterization,  Humour,  Style,  Moral 
Spirit;  Shakespeare's  Characters,  containing  critical  discourses  on 
twenty-five  of  the  Plays. 


London  Athenseum :  They  deserve 
to  rind  a  jilace  in  every  liljrary  de- 
voted to  Shakespeare,  to  editions  of 


his  works,  to  his  biography,  or  to  the 
works  of  commentators. 


IG  HlCiJlER    ENGLISH. 

Hudson's  Classical  English  Reader. 

For  Hiiih  Schools,  Academies,  and  the  upper  grades  of  Grammar  Schools. 
I'Jiiio.  Ch)lh.  41i5  pages.  Mailing  Price,  ^1.10;  Introduction,  $1.00; 
Allowance  for  old  book  iu  use,  oO  cents. 

"T  T  contains  selections  from  Uryant,  Burke,  Burns,  Byron,  Car- 
lyle,  Coleridge,  Cowley,  Cowper,  Dana,  Froude,  Gladstone, 
Goldsmith,  Gray,  Helps,  Herbert,  Hooker,  Hume,  Irving,  Keble, 
Lamb,  Landor,  Longfellow,  ]\Iacaulaj%  Milton,  Peabody,  Scott, 
Shakespeare,  Southey,  Spenser,  Talt'ourd,  Taylor,  "Webster,  AV^hit- 
tier,  AVordsworth,  and  other  standard  authors,  with  explanatory 
and  critical  foot-notes.  This  is  a  book  that  seems  to  merit  a  place 
in  every  school  of  advanced  grade  below  the  college. 


F.  J.  Child,  Pro/,  of  Engliah  in 
Hnrvurd  Universiti/ :  A  boy  who 
knew  this  book  as  well  as  boys  who 


are  good  for  anything  generally  know 
their  readers,  might  almost  be  said 
to  be  liberally  educated. 


Essays  on  Education,  English  Studies,  and  Shake- 

speare. 

By  Henry  N.  Hudson,  LT^.D.,  the  Eminent  Shakespearian.    Square 
l(]mo.     Taper.     118  pages.    Mailing  Price,  25  cents. 

''pHE  volume  contains:  The  Preface  to  the  new  edition  of  ITam- 
let.   An  Essay  on  " En f/lish  in   Schools,"  '^Shakespeare   as   a 
Text-Book,"  "How  to   Use  Shakespeare  in  Schools." 

Hudson's  Text-Book  of  Poetry. 

By  H.  N.  Hudson,  LL.D.     l'2mo.     Cloth.    G!>4  pages.    Mailing  Price, 
$1.40 ;  Introduction,  $1.25. 

^ELECTIONS   from   Wordsworth,    Coleridge,    Burns,    Beattie, 
Goldsmith,  and    Thomson.      With   sketches   of   the    authors' 
lives,  and  instructive  foot-notes,  historical  and  explanatory, 

Hudson's  Text-Book  of  Prose. 

P.y  H.  N.  Hudson,  LL.D.    12mo.    Cloth.     636  pages.     Mailing  Price, 
$1.40;  Introduction,  $1.25. 

T?ROM    Burke,   Webster,    and   Bacon.      With    sketches   of    the 
authors'  lives,  and  foot-notes,  historical  and  explanatory. 


HIGHER    ENGLISH.  17 

Hudson's  Selections  of  Prose  and  Poetry. 

Annotated.  12mo.  Paper.  Mailing  Price  of  each,  20  cents  ;  Introduc 
tion  Price,  15  cents. 

Edmund  Burke.  Section  1.  Five  Speeches  and  ten  Papers.  Sec 
TION  2.  A  Sketch  of  his  Life.  A  Letter  to  a  Noble  Lord,  and  eleven 
extracts. 

Daniel  Webster.  Section  1.  The  Reply  to  Hayne,  and  six  extracts 
Section  2.  A  Sketch  of  his  Life,  and  extracts  from  twenty-five 
Speeches. 

Lord  Bacon.     A  Sketch  of  his  Life,  and  extracts  from  thirty  Essays. 

Wordsworth.  Section  I.  Life  of  Wordsworth,  the  Prelude,  and  thirty- 
three  Poems.  Section  II.  Sixty  Poems  and  Sonnets,  accompanied 
by  foot-notes,  historical  aiid  exi)lanatory. 

Coleridge  and  Burns.     Biographies  of  the  Poets,  and  forty-five  Poems. 

Addison  and  Goldsmith.  A  Life  of  each,  fifteen  Papers  from  Addison, 
and  eleven  Prose  Selections  from  Goldsmith,  with  TJie  Deserted  Village. 

Craik's  English  of  Shakespeare. 

Illustrated  in  a  Philological  Commentary  on  Julius  Caesar.  By  Georgb 
L.  Craik,  C,!ueeu's  College,  Belfast.  Edited,  from  the  third  revised 
London  edition,  by  W' .  J.  Kolfe,  Caraliridge,  Mass.  l(Jmo.  Cloth.  '6^ 
pages.     Mailing  Price,  ^1.00 ;  Introduction,  iK)  cents. 

A  N"  exposition  in  regard  both  to  the  language  or  style  of  Shake- 
speare, and  to  the  English  language  generally. 

Shakspere's  Versification. 

Notes  on  Shakspere's  Versitication,  with  Appendix  on  the  Terse  Tests, 
and  a  short  Descriptive  Bil)lio<rrapliy.  By  George  H.  Browne,  A.M. 
12mo.     Paper.    34  pages.     Price,  interleaved,  25  cents. 

Shakespeare  and  Chaucer  Examinations. 

Edited,  with  some  remarks  on  the  "  Class-Room  Study  of  Shakespeare," 
by  WiLLiAJi  Taylor  Thom,  M.A.,  Professor  of  Engli.sh  in  HoUins  In- 
stitute, Va.  Square  l(Jmo.  Cloth.  340  pages.  Mailing  Price,  Sl.lU; 
for  iutroduetion,  $;i.OO. 

rpHTS  is  a  revised  and  enlarged  edition  of  the  Two  Shakespeare 

Exnnunations.  published  several  years  and  very  much  liked  by 

teachers  of  English  Literature.     That  book  contained  two  exauii- 


\s 


liLGHEll    E^■(JLIS^. 


nations  held  at  Hollins  Institute  in  ISSl,  on  Ilamlel;  in  1882,  on 
Mncheth,  for  the  annual  prize  by  the  New  :Sh(despeare  Society  of 
England.  Besides  these,  there  are  in  tiie  new  edition  the  Exami- 
nations on  Kirici  Lear  (188:5),  on  Olliello  (1881),  on  The  Merchant 
of  Venice  (1880);  a  Chaucer  Examination  (1880),  set  chiefly  by 
Professor  Cliild,  of  Harvard  UnivcM-sity,  and  based  upon  the  "  Pro- 
logue," "The  Knight's  Tale,"  and  the  "  Xun's  Priest's  Tale"  ot 
the  Canterbury  Tales,  and  some  additional  remarks  on  the  Study 
of  Shakespeare  in  Schools  and  in  Shakespeare  Reading  Clubs. 


W.  M.  Baskervill,  Prof,  in  Van- 
derbill  i'n/rcr.'iit//,  in  the'' Nashville 
American" :  Many  essays,  newspaper 
articles,  ]ectt)r<;s,  and  papers  on  the 
teaehiiif;  of  Eii.uli.sh  have  in  tlie  hist 
ten  or  til'teen  years  apiieared,  hut  we 
do  not  hesitate  to  give  tlie  palin  to 
this  book.  It  is  eminently  practical. 
Professor  Tl.oni  has  availed  himself 
of  all  the  hints,  .sugtiestioiis,  and 
metliods  olTered  by  Hale,  Hiid.son, 
Abbott.  Rolfe,  4Uid  others,  and  by 
means  of  a  burning  enthusiasm  has, 
as  every  true  teacher  must  do  in 
order  to  win  the  highe.st  success, 
shaped  theory  and  practice  into  a 
perfect  system  of  his  own,  from  which 
he  gets  the  best  results.  These  ex- 
aminations give  the  high-water  mark 
of  the  study  of  Knglish  ni  the  col- 
leges of  this  country We  heartily 

recommend  these  examinations  to 
teachers.  They  are  full  of  sugges- 
tive information.  They  will  serve 
as  admiral)l(!  models. 

Edward  S.  Joynes,  Prof,  of  En;/- 
llsh.  South  C((roli}if(  Colli'i/e.  Colum- 
bia: This  beautiful  book  is  an  honor 
to  .\merican  scholarship.  I  hope  that 
American  scholars  will  show  a  just 
appreciation  of  it. 

Frank  Eoane,  Teacher  of  Encjlish 
Literature,  l/ii/h  Srhool,  Li/nrhburr/, 
Va.:  I  found  the  first  edition  of  this 
little  book  most  valual)le  and  sug- 
gestive,  aud    from  even  a  cursory 


examination  I  am  assured  of  the  en- 
hanced value  of  this  one.  For  teach- 
ers and  pupils  just  entering  the  field 
of  S]uikesi)carian  study,  —  a  class 
largc'ly  on  the  increase  in  our  land, 
—  this  book  will  be  fouml  almost  iu- 
dispensable. 

Francis  J.  Child,  Prof,  of  EnuUsh, 
Ilarrard  t'uin  rsiti/  :  No  one  can 
fail  to  see  that  literature  is  taught 
at  the  Hollins  Institute  in  a  way 
altogether  admirable.  All  the  papers 
show  knowledge,  taste,  and  thouglit, 
and  if  anything  remains  to  be  added, 
it  is  that  they  are  all  well  written. 
I  agree  with  the  author  in  all  the 
important  points  of  his  paper  on 
the  study  of  Shakspere.  Literature 
is  the  one  indispensable  study  for 
women  and  for  men,  aud  Shakspere 
in  literature.  I  mean  by  Shakspere 
about  half  his  plays. 

John  F.  Genung,  Prof,  of  lihet- 
orlr,  Amherst  Cullei/e :  The  great 
l)roblem  in  the  teaching  of  English 
literature  is,  how  to  combine  the  req- 
uisite thoroughness  in  detail  on  the 
one  hand  with  the  larger  interest 
due  to  the  spirit  of  the  literal  tu-e  on 
the  other.  I'roiessor  Thom's  book 
outlines  a  method  that,  in  my  judg- 
ment, very  happily  solves  this  prob- 
lem ;  and  the  really  remarkaljle 
examination  papers  here  published 
prove  that  the  method  has  succeeded. 


HIGHER    ENGLISH. 


19 


Arnold's  English  Literature. 

Historical  and  Critical. 

With  an  Appeudix  on  English  Metres,  and  Summaries  of  the  Different 
Literary  Periods.  By  Thomas  Aknold,  M.A.,  of  University  College, 
Oxford.  American  edition.  Revised.  12mo.  Cloth.  558  pages.  Mail- 
in'^  Price,  Sl.(i5;  Introduction  (with  or  without  the  following  pamphlet), 
SL50;  Allowance  for  old  hook.  40  cents. 

The  Anglo-Saxon  and  Norman  Periods  have  been  republished,  from 
the  fourth  revised  Endish  edition,  and  can  be  furnished  in  paper  bind- 
iug.    Mailing  Price,  30  cents;  Introduction,  25  cents. 

rpHE  student  of  this  manual  will  receive  just  impressions  of  the 
relative  value  of  names  and  books,  as  well  as  political  and  re- 
ligious influences.    Indeed,  the  adjustment  and  arrangement  of  mar 
terial  are  managed  with  wonderful  dexterity  and  analytic  clearness. 


H.  H.  Morgan,  Prin.  of  High 
School,  St.  Louis,  Mu.:  I  should 
most  fully  recommend  it  to  any 
one  whose  interest  in  literature  was 


that  of  the  student ;  for  he  would 
find  much  which  could  otherwise 
be  obtained  only  by  extensive  read- 
ing. 


First  Two  Books  of  Milton's  Paradise  Lost; 

and  Milton's  Lycidas. 

By  Homer  B.  Sprague,  Ph.D.,  formerly  Principal  of  the  Girls"  High 
School,  Boston.  I'imo.  Cloth.  198  pages.  Mailing  Price,  55  cents;  In- 
troduction, 45  cents. 

rpHIS  edition  furnishes  convenient  and  suggestive  notes,  with 
excellent  type   and  arrangement,  and  presents   an  approved 
formula  for  conducting  class  exercises.     It  omits  fifteen  or  twenty 
objectionable  lines. 


William  F.  Warren,  President  of 
Boston    University :     It    seems    to 


me  admirably  adapted  to  its   pur- 
pose. 


A  Hand-Booh  of  Poetics. 


For  Students  of  English  Verse.  By  Francis  B.  Gummere,  Pli.D., 
Head  Master  of  the  Swain  Free  School,  New  Bedford,  Mass.,  and  for- 
merly Instructor  in  English  in  Harvard  College.  12mo.  Cloth.  vi4-250 
pages.    Mailing  Price,  |!1.10;  for  Introduction,  $1.00. 

rpiIE  book  has  three  divisions,  —  Subject-Matter,  Style,  Metre. 
Each  is  treated  from  two  points  of  view,  —  the  historical,  trac- 
ing the  growth  of  different  kinds  of  subject,  of  expression,  or  of 


20 


HIGHER    ENGLISH. 


ihytlim ;   and  the  theoretical,  stating  clearly  the  principles  and 
laws  of  the  matter  discussed. 


r.  A.  March,  Prof,  of  Emjlish  Lit- 
erature, Lafayette  College:  An  ex- 
cellent book :  a  work  of  jjood  sense 
and  fjood  laste,  and  much  learning 
in  small  (■omi)ass. 

J.  M.  Garnett,  Prof,  of  English 
Literature,  University  of  Virginia  : 
It  has  fulfilled  my  anticipations,  and 


it  supplies  a  real  deficiency  in  text- 
books. I  do  not  know,  anywhere  in 
I'.nglish,  of  a  better  treatment  of  the 
subject. 

F.  J.  Cliild,  Prof,  of  English,  liar. 
vard  (JitlUge :  1  think  you  have  aii 
exceedingly  fine  book  in  Mr.  Gum- 
mere's  Poetics. 


Outlines  of  the  Art  of  Expression. 

By  J.  H.  GiLMORE,  Professor  of  Logic,  Rlietoric,  and  English,  in  the 
I'niversity  of  Rochester,  N.Y.  i2mo.  Cloth.  117  pages.  Mailing  Price, 
05  cents  ;  Introduction,  (JO  cents. 

A    TREATISE  on  English  Composition  and  Rhetoric,  designed 
especially  for  Academies,  High  Schools,  and  the  Freshman 
Class  in  Colleges. 

Fulton  and  Trueblood's  Choice  Readings. 

From  Popular  and  Standard  Authors. 

Compiled  and  arranged  by  Robert  I.  Fulton  and  Thomas  C.  Trub- 
BLOOD,  Associate  Founders  and  Directors  of  the  I'niversity  Seliool  of 
Oratory,  Kansas  City,  Mo.,  and  Teachers  of  Elocution  in  the  Univ.  of 
Mich.,  tlie  Ohio  Wesleyan  Univ.,  the  Kentucky  Univ.,  and  the  Missouri 
(State  I'niv.  I'iuio.  Tl->  pages.  By  Mail,  .'i?l.(i5;  Introduction,  $\.bO. 
Presentation  edition,  stamped  cover,  full  gilt,  liue  paper,  :iii4.00  retail. 

FTS  distinctive  feature  is  the  number,  variety,  and  interest  of 
the  pieces,  classified  according  to  their  character,  and  covering 
the  entire  range  of  available  selections.  Indices  are  given  to 
the  best  scenes  from  all  the  plays  of  Shakespeare,  139  choice 
readings  from  the  Bible,  and  159  hymns,  —  all  classified.  A  com- 
plete diagram  of  the  principles  of  vocal  expression  is  added. 


J.  W.  Churchill,  Prof,  of  Elocu- 
tion, Theological  iSeniinary,  An- 
dover,  Mass. :  The  excellent  purpose 
of  the  authors  has  been  very  success- 
fully accomplished,  both  in  the  ex- 
pository ami  illustrative  material. 
The  selections  arc;  intcjresting — some- 
times through  noA^elty.  but  more 
often  because  of  their  intrinsic  worth. 


Wm.  B.  Chamberlain,  Instructor 
in  Elocution,  (Jbcrlia  College,  0.: 
They  are  choice  indeed.  I  think  I 
do  not  know  of  any  collection  rejire- 
senting  so  many  good  authors  and 
so  well  arranged.  The  indices,  espe- 
cially that  to  scenes  from  Sh.ike- 
.speare,  form  a  very  valuable  adflition 
to  the  volume.     {June  11,  1SS5.) 


HIGIIEM    ENGLISH.  21 

Fulton  &  True  blood's  Chart 

Illustrating  the  Principles  of  Vocal  Expression. 

By  UoBERT  I.  FuLTOx  &  T.  C.  Trueblood,  compilers  of  Fulton  & 
Trueljlood's  Choice  Headinjis.  Printed  on  extra  tough  paper,  ^li  x  (iO 
inches,  bound  on  the  edges,  and  mounted.  Retail  price,  S'2.00.  Special 
introduction  terms  on  application. 

nnilE  chart  presents  a  complete  system  of  vocal  culture  and  elo- 
cution  at  a  glance,  thus  avoiding  tlie  necessity  of  turning  the 
leaves  of  a  book  or  a  series  of  charts.  The  principles  are  scien- 
tifically arranged  and  supplemented  ^vith  diagrams,  exercises,  and 
illustrative  sentences. 

The  chart  is  recommended  to  professional  elocutionists,  no  mat- 
ter what  school  or  system  they  represent ;  to  all  students  of  vocal 
culture  and  expression,  as  an  invaluable  aid  in  private  practice, 
suggesting  a  regular,  systematic,  and  judicious  drill  —  the  most 
imperative  condition  of  success ;  and  to  the  teachers  in  the  public 
schools,  enabling  them  to  develop  the  voices  of  children  and  im- 
press upon  them  the  principles  of  correct  expression. 

system  of  voice  training.  I  shall  be 
glad  to  recommend  it  as  I  have  op- 
portunity.    {Jan.  li,  1888.) 


F.  H.  Sargent,  Prin.  yew  York 
School  of  Actin;/ :  1  tlnd  it  an  ex- 
ceedingly good  exposition  of  the  Rush 


A  Method  of  English  Composition. 

By  T.  AVhiting  BaxcFvOFT,  Professor  of  Rhetoric  and  English  Litera- 
ture in  i5rown  University.  l"2nio.  Cloth.  'J6  pages,  flailing  Price, 
55  cents  ;  Introduction  Price,  50  cents. 

rpHE  author's  intention  is  to  furnish  to  colleges,  academies,  and 
high  schools  a  brief  system  of  instruction. in  the  preparation 
of  essays  or  compositions.      The  second  part  consists  of  lists  of 
classified  themes,  with  specimens  of  plans  of  compositions,  etc. 


E.  E.  Smith,  Prof,  of  English  and 
History,  Purdue  Universitij,  Lafay- 
ette, Ind. :  I  have  used  it  with  an 
advanced  class  to  decided  advan- 
tage. The  divisions  and  the  sug- 
gestive arrangement  of  the  various 


kinds  of  subjects  that  may  be  treated 
in  essays,  orations,  and  debates,  is 
such,  I  found,  as  to  remove  unneces- 
sary obstacles,  and  at  the  same  time 
to  require  thought  on  the  student's 
part. 


Lee's  Graphic  Chart  of  English  Literature. 

By  Y.  P.  Lee,  of  Yale  College.    Printed  on  tough  manilla  paper  24  x  39 
in  size.    Mailing  Price,  30  cents;  for  introduction,  'J5  cents. 


IILSTOUV.  101 

The  Leading  Facts  of  English  History. 

By  D.  li.  Montgomery.  New  edition.  Rewritten  and  enlarged,  with 
Maps  and  Tables.  12mo.  Cloth.  448  pasres.  Mailing  Priee,  $il.25. 
Introductiou  Price,  $1.12;  Allowance  for  old  book.  40  cents. 

rpiIE  fovnier  edition  has  been  rewritten,  as  it  had  become  evi- 
dent  that  a  work  on  the  same  plan,  but  more  comprehensive, 
and  better  suited  to  prevailing  courses  and  methods  ol  class-work, 
would  be  still  more  heartily  welcomed. 

Important  events  are  treated  with  greater  fulness,  and  the  rela- 
tion of  English  History  to  that  of  Europe  and  the  world  is  carefully 
shown.     References  for  further  study  are  added. 

The  text  is  in  short  paragraphs,  each  with  a  topical  heading  in 
bold  type  for  the  student's  use.  The  headings  may  be  made  to 
serve  the  purpose  of  questions.  By  simply  passing  them  over,  the 
reader  has  a  clear,  continuous  narrative. 

The  treatment  of  each  reign  is  closed  with  a  brief  summary  of 
its  principal  points.  Likewise,  at  the  end  of  each  jieriod  there  is  a 
section  showing  the  condition  of  the  country,  and  its  progress  in 
Government,  Religion,  Military  Affairs,  Learning  and  Art,  General 
Industry,  IManners  and  Customs.  These  summaries  will  be  found 
of  the  greatest  value  for  reference,  review,  and  fuller  study ;  but 
when  the  book  is  used  for  a  brief  course,  or  for  general  reading, 
they  may  be  omitted. 

No  pains  have  been  spared  to  make  the  execution  of  the  work 
equal  to  its  plan.  Vivid  touches  here  and  there  betray  the  author's 
njastery.of  details.  Thorough  investigation  has  been  made  of  all 
points  where  there  was  reason  to  doubt  traditional  statements.  The 
proof-sheets  have  been  carefully  read  by  two  experienced  high- 
school  teachers,  and  also  by  two  college  professors  of  history. 

The  text  is  illustrated  with  fourteen  maps,  and  supplemented 
with  ftdl  genealogical  and  chronological  tables. 

It  is  believed  that  this  book  will  be  acknowledged  superior  — 

1.  In  interest.  2.  In  accuracy. 

3.  In  judicious  selection  of  matter. 

4.  In  conciseness  combined  with  adequacy. 

5.  In  philosophical  insight  free  from  speculation  or  theorizing. 

6.  In  completeness. 

7.  In  availability  as  a  practical  class-room  book. 


102 


HlSTOllY. 


Send  for  the  special  circular,  from  -w-hich.  are  taken, 
the  following  Representative  Opinions  :  — 


Hon.  E.  J.  Phelps,  United  States 
Mijiister  to  Great  Britain :  In  ray 
opinion,  the  author  has  done  ex- 
tremely well  a  much-needed  work, 
in  presenting  in  so  terse,  clear,  and 
available  form  the  j)rincipal  points 
in  that  greatest  of  all  histories,  the 
common  property  and  most  useful 
study  of  the  English-speaking  race. 

Professor  Goldwin  Smith :  The 
book,  besides  being  very  attractive 
in  appearance,  seems  to  be  very  suit- 
able for  the  purpose  in  view,  viz.,  to 
present  school  pupils  with  a  clear 
and  intelligent  idea  of  tlie  main  facts 
of  English  history  in  connection  with 
the  social  and  industrial  development 
of  the  nation. 

E.  B.  Andrews,  Prof,  of  History, 
Brown  University :  I  do  not  remem- 
ber to  have  seen  any  book  before 
which  sets  forth  the  leading  facts  of 
English  History  so  succinctly,  and 
at  the  same  time  so  interestingly 
and  clearly. 

A.  L.  Perry,  Prof,  of  Political 
Economy,  Williams  College:  I  have 
never  seen  anything  at  all  equal  to 
it  for  the  niche  it  was  intended  to  iiU. 

J.  B.  Clark,  Prof,  of  History,  Smith 
College:  1  especially  like  its  intro- 
duction of  matter  relating  to  the  Ufe 
of  the  people,  in  a  way  that  seems  to 
make  the  narrative  less  dry,  rather 
than  more  so,  as  so  often  hapijens. 

Jas.  F.  Colby,  Prof,  of  Law  and 

Political  Science,  Dartmouth  Col- 
lege :  Its  title  is  a  true  description  of 
its  contents.  Its  author  shows  sense 
of  proportion,  and  wisely  gives  prom- 
inence to  economic  facts  and  the 
development  of  constitutional  prin- 
ciples.    (0'^  27,1S87.) 

P.  V.  N.  Myers.  Pres.  of  Belmont 
College :  The  book  was  an  admirable 


one  as  first  issued,  but  the  careful 
revision  and  the  addition  of  maps  and 
tables  have  added  grsatly  to  its  value. 
In  my  judgment  it  is  by  far  the  best 
English  History  for  school-room  use 
now  before  the  public. 

W.  F.  Allen,  Prof,  of  History,  Uni- 
versity of  Wisconsin,  Madison :  As 
I  have  said  in  relation  to  the  earlier 
edition,  the  author  has  succeeded  in 
an  unusual  degree  in  telling  the  story 
of  English  History  in  an  interesting 
and  suggestive  manner,  keeping  clear 
of  the  prevailing  fault  of  loading  his 
pages  with  imessential  names  and 
dates.     {Nov.  22,  1887.) 

F.  B.  Palmer,  Ph.D.,  Prin.  of  State 
Normal  School,  Fredonia,  N.  Y. :  I 
have  not  examined  anything  that 
seems  to  me  equal  to  it  for  a  class  in 
English  History. 

John  Fiske,  Prof,  of  History, 
Wasliington  University:  It  seems 
to  me  excellent. 

Francis  A.  Cooke,  Teacher  of 
History,  Penn  Charter  School,  Phil- 
adelphia, Pa. :  My  verdict  on  Mont- 
gomery's History  is  unqualified 
approval.  I  have  not  seen  a  text- 
book upon  English  History  so  well 
adapted  to  school  use. 

C.  B.  Gilbert,  Prin.  of  High  School, 
St.  Paul,  Minn.:  In  many  respects  I 
consider  it  the  best  text-I)ook  on 
English  History  for  high  schools  that 
I  have  seen.  Its  arrangement  is  ex- 
cellent, its  style  clear  and  very  at- 
tractive.    {Nov.  22,  1887.) 

Frank  E.  Plummer,  Prin.  of  High 
School,  Des  Moines.  la. :  I  examined 
it  very  carefully,  and  pronounce  it 
the  best  English  History  for  high- 
school  use  of  any  with  which  I  am 
familiar.     (J^^oi'.'2'J,  1887.) 


HISTORY.  •  103 

English  History  Reader. 

By  D.  H.  MoNTGOMKRY.      12mo.     Cloth,     xxxiv  +  254  pasres,  with  a 
colored  map.     Mailing  Price,  85  cents;  for  introduction,  75  cents. 

nnillS  is  the  first  edition  of  Montgomery's  Leading  Facta  of  Eng- 
Ibh  History.     The  book  has  clearly  demonstrated  its  value  for 
reading  purposes,  and  the  price  has  been  reduced  to  make  it  gen- 
erally available  for  this  use. 


V/.  P.  Atkinson,  Prof,  of  English 
and  IliKturi/,  Mai^fidrhusctts  Institute 
of  Ttchnolorpi,  Bd.Hton :  It  is  that 
uncommon  kind  of  l)ook,  a  readable 
short  sketch.    It  is  fresh  and  vigor- 

Pilgrims  and  Puritans. 


ous,  and  the  references  seem  to  me 
very  well  selected.     I  cordially  rec- 
ommend it  to  all  students  and  teachi 
ers  of  English  history. 
{Jan.  3,  1886.) 


By  Miss  N.  Moore.    Square  lOmo.    Cloth,    viii +  197  pages.    Illustrated. 
Mailing  Price,  70  cents;  for  introduction,  (JO  cents. 

rpHIS  is  a  book  of  easy  reading,  containing  sketches  of  the  early 
days  of  Massachusetts,  —  Massachusetts  Indians,  the  Pilgrims 
of  Plymouth,  English  Boston,  William  Blackstone,  John  Winthrop, 
Extracts  from  Wood^s  New  England's  Prospect,  with  notes  and 
appendix. 

It  is  intended  for  children  who  have  not  yet  begun  or  are  just 
beginning  the  study  of  United  States  History,  and  to  supplement 
or  prepare  the  way  for  the  ordinary  text-book.  It  has  already 
been  used  by  children  under  ten  years  of  age.  It  is  provided  with 
maps  and  illustrations. 

Tfie  Reader's  Guide  to  English  History. 

By  William  Fkancis  Allen,  A.M.,  Professor  in  the  University  of 

WisconsiiL      Long  <Svo.  Paper.      50  pages.      Mamng  Price,  30  cents  ; 

Introduction,  25  cents.  The  Sujiplement  can  be  had  separately;  Mailing 
Price,  10  cents. 

nnilE  arrangement  is  that  of  four  parallel  columns  upon  two 
opposite  pages  :  the  first  column  giving  the  English  sovereigns; 
the  second,  histories,  biographies,  and  essays;  the  third,  novels, 
poems,  and  dramas  illustrating  that  period  of  English  history ; 
the  fourth,  the  same  class  of  works,  illustrating  contemporary 
history. 


33 

Washington  and  His  Country. 

By  Washixc.ton  Irving  and  John  Fiske.     654  pases,  including  13 
maps.     IJiiio.    Clotli.     Mailing  price,  SI. 10  ;  for  introduction,  Sl.CK). 
QUESTIONS,  prepared  to  facilitate  the  use  of  the  work  as  a  text-book 
of  United  States  history  will  be  published  in  April. 

rpiIIS  con.sists  of  Trving's  Life  of  Washington,  judiciously  abridged 
by  John  Fiske,  and  supplemented  with  an  Introduction  and  a 
Continuation  by  'Mr.  Fiske  that  make  the  work  in  effect  a  His- 
tory of  the  United  States.  It  is  anticipated  that  this  History 
will  be  cordially  welcomed  and  will  exert  a  great  influence  upon 
present  methods  and  courses  of  study.  It  will  be  found  to  com- 
bine many  peculiar  excellences. 

1.  History  is  taught  through  biography.  This  secures  the  great- 
est interest,  unity,  and  clearness,  and,  at  the  same  time,  the  greatest 
moral  value. 

2.  The  history  is  presented  in  a  readable  outline.  The  salient 
points  are  fully  and  vividly  set  forth,  and  cannot  fail  to  impress 
the  memory  and  the  imagination. 

3.  The  pupil  has  before  him  in  this  book  the  thought  and  lan- 
guage of  an  acknowledged  master  of  English. 

4.  The  abridging  and  the  supplementing  have  been  done  by  one 
exceptional!}'  competent.  The  Introduction  and  the  Continuation 
are  masterly  sketches,  unequalled  by  anything  hitherto  published. 

Thus,  while  acquiring  a  knowledge  of  facts  and  events,  the  pupil 
is  gaining  a  love  for  history  and  literature,  moulding  his  diction  by 
a  classic  author,  and  ennobling  his  character  by  contemplating  one 
of  the  grandest  types  of  humanity.  There  will  be  less  of  mechani- 
cal study  and  more  of  the  real,  less  committing  to  memory  of 
trivial  facts,  and  a  firmer  grasp  of  the  important  ones. 

W.  E.    Buck,    Siipt.    of  Schools,  \ioT  years.    I  recommend  it  right  and 

Manchester,    X.H. :  I  cannot  think  I  left  without  reserve. 

of  another  book  so  desirable  for  col- j      ^^^^^^    j^     3^!^^^.    Supt.    of 

lateral  readnig  by  pupUs  studying  j  ^^^^^.^^^  ^sprhu,Jeld,  Mass. :  It  can 


historv  in  the  common  schools. 


be   used  as  a  text-book    on    U.   S. 


E.  H.  Eussell,   Prin.  of  Normal    History;  and  as  a  book  for  supple- 
Svhool,    Worcester,   Mass. :    I   have  [  mentary  reading  on  the  subject,  I 
ordered  a  supply  for  class  use.     It '  don't  know  of  anything  else  equal 
seems  to  me  the  most   noteworthy    to  it. 
book  that  has  appeared  in  this  field    {Jan.  20,  1888.) 


34 


S.  T.  Button,  Sijpt.  of  Schools, 
Nev:  JIuicii,  Ct. :  One  of  the  greatest 
of  Irving's  works,  it  is  indeed  a  clas- 
sic, and  this  handy  edition  judi- 
ciously condensed  and  extended  will 
rank  as  one  of  the  best  scliool  histo- 
ries and  one  of  the  most  suitable 
reading-boolts  in  the  market. 

J.  A.  Graves,  Prin.  of  South 
School,  Jlurlford,  Ct. :  We  feel  sure 
that  it  will  be  a  valuable  and  impor- 
tant addition  to  the  list  of  books  for 
supplementary  work  in  history. 

Albert  C.  Perkins,  Prin.  of  Adel- 
phi  Acad.,  Brooklyn,  N.Y.:  As  a 
book  to  keep  within  reach  of  classes 
in  American  history  it  seems  to  me 
excellent.  Indeed,  if  used  as  a  text- 
book in  that  branch,  I  believe  it  must 
bring  the  best  results  in  impressing 
on  the  minds  of  pupils  a  sense  of  the 
spirit  and  genius  of  our  history  as 
Well  as  the  leading  facts  of  it. 

Henry  P.  Emerson,  Prin.  of  High 
School,  Buffalo,  N.Y.:  Uniting  the 
grace  of  Irving  with  the  strength  of 
Fiske  is  a  good  thought. 

F.  B.  Palmer,  Prin.  of  State  Nor- 
mal School,  Fredonia,  N.Y.:  I  should 
think  the  work  of  abridgment  ad- 
mirably done  and  the  additions  judi- 
cious, and  heartily  welcome  the  work 
as  likely  to  revive  interest  in  one 
of  our  best  authors  and  one  of  the 
noblest  themes  that  can  be  placed 
before  the  young.     {Dec.  22,  1887.) 

E.  T.  Tomlinson,  Headmaster  of 
Putf/ers  Coll.  Gram.  School,  Neic 
Brvnswick,  N.J. :  To  my  mind  it 
will  pi'ove  a  valuable  book  for  school 
purposes.    {Jan.  3,  1888.) 

0.  D.  Kobinson,  Prin.  of  High 
School,  AlhdiKj,  N.Y. :  I  believe  that 
it  is  adiniralile  in  every  respect  for 
the  objects  which  the  authtu-  had  in 
Tiew  when  prejji^jiiug  it, .  It  is  vki^ 


tory,  biography,  and  literature  of  the 
very  iK'St,  all  combined. 

John  G.  Wright,  Prin.  of  Union 
Sc/iool,  Cooperstoicn,  N.Y.:  It  is  the 
happiest  thought  yet  in  the  way  of 
an  abridged  history.    {Dec.  20, 1887.) 

C.  B.  Wood,  Prin.  of  High  School, 
Pitt.sbarg/i,  Pa. :  The  book  is  a  gem. 
I  have  placed  it  in  the  hands  of  the 
teacher  of  history,  and  recommended 
it  as  a  Ijook  of  reference. 

E.  C.  Delano,  Ass't  Svpt.  of  Schools, 
Chicago,  III. :  It  is  a  charming  book, 
well  fitted  for  historical  and  supple- 
mentary reading  in  the  advanced 
grades  of  our  public  schools. 

Lewis  H.  Jones,  Svpt.  of  Public 

Schools,  Indianapjolis,  Ind. :  It  seems 
to  be  admirably  adajrted  to  secure 
two  of  the  most  important  aims  that 
are  ever  reached  in  historical  teach- 
ing—  love  of  country  and  love  of 
good  historical  reading. 

0.  T.  Bright,  Supt.  of  Public 
Schools,  Knglewood,  III. :  It  seems 
to  me  very  valuable  as  an  adjunct  in 
teaching  United  States  history.  I 
have  seen  no  other  book  to  compare 
with  it  in  value  as  supplementary  to 
the  study  named.     {J(m.  23,  1888.) 

J.  B.  Young,  Supt.  of  Public 
Schools,  JJavenport,  la. :  It  sets  forth 
in  a  sinij^le  and  captivating  style  all 
the  important  facts  of  our  country's 
history,  without  burdening  its  pages 
or  the  mind  with  valueless  detail 
wherever  it  is  used.     {Feb.  2,  1888.) 

E.  Stanley,  Supt.  of  Public  Schools, 
Laiorence,  Kan. :  It  is  a  volume  of 
remarkable  merit,  written  in  au  ad- 
miral)le  style,  full  of  interest,  and 
attractive  beyond  ordinary  books. 

F.  M.  Draper,  S^ipt.  of  Public 
Schools,  Atchisim,  Knn.:  Something 
must  be  done  to  correct  the  faulty 
methods  of  teaching  history.     I  be- 

;  Ue\i,e  tl}i.s^  ;S:t.ep .  in  that  direction. 


LOS  AKG^LlSfe.   ■•-  "/ 


UNIVERSITY  OF  CALIFORNIA  LIBRARY 

Los  Angeles 

This  book  is  DUE  on  the  last  date  stamped  below. 


APR  2  6  1560 


Mf\RJ 


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3  1158  01077  94 


10 


FACILITY 


S- 


CLASSICS    FOR    CHILDREN. 


Choice  Literature ;  Full  Notes ;  Large  Type ;  Firm  Binding  ;  Low  Prices. 

Each  oftkf  volumes  is  printid  in  large  type,  on  good  paper,  and  firmly  bound. 
Jiach  is  tomplete  ;  or  abr.  Aged,  where  cutting  has  beeti  necessary,  by  a  skilful 
h-'-i,u-ithoi:t  impairment  of  style  or  story.  Illustrations,  when  desirable,  ar.- 
freely  ii  ed.  ^llwtrated  books  are  indicated  by  stars.  'J  he  f"  -f  have  been  mad: 
.  low  ^s  possible.  An  edition  has  been  bound  in  cloth,  ,..,uUin^  the  htddline 
"  Classics  for  Children,"     J  he  books  may  be  had  in  set:-,  boxed. 


Hans  And'srsen's  Faiiy  Taler. 

♦First  : '•  .•  Supplementary 'o   '     Third  Rep'' er.  i 

♦Seco.;:-' .      .  '    :  Snppiemetitary  «      ;,c  Foui  '•  R.  .tsi.  / 

*JSsop's  Fi  >.  >.,     iih    jlectinns  fron.    Crilui  ;  iid  ^.j.     vj.:ta.;ie. 

*Kingslej's  Wat er- Babies :  A.  S'  ry  for  a  Land  Baby. 

*Rnskiii's  King  cf  the  Golden  11  ver:  A  Legend  of  Stiria. 

*The  Swiss  Family  Robinson,    /^i  ndged. 

Robinson  Crusoe.     Concluding  with  his  'I'pnrture  from  the  island. 

*Kingsley's  Greek  Heroes. 

Lamb's  Tales  from  Shakespeare.    "  Meas.  foi  Meas,.    emitted. 

Scotfs  Tales  of  a  Grandfather. 
*Martineau'3  Peasant  and  Prince.  1^^ 

Scotfs  Lady  of  the  Lake. 

^^co'^t's  Lay  of  the  Last  Minstrel. 

Lumbs  Adventures  of    Hysses. 

Church's  Stories  of  the  Old  World. 

Scotfs  Talism^r..    Crar.''-. 

Scotfs  Quentin  Durwcri.       '  -htly  abridged. 

Irving' S  Sketch  13  c  ok.  S:x  '•'-Ic-ijns,  including  "Rip  Van  Winkle.'* 

Shakespeare' s  Merchant  of  Venice. 

Scotfs  Guy  Mann  ring.    Complete. 

Scotfs  Ivanhoe.    Complete.      Scotfs  Rob  Roy.    Complet 

Johnson's  Rasselas :  Prince  of  Abyssinia. 

Gulliver's  Travels.    TKe  Voyages  tc  Lilliput  and  Brobdingaag. 
*PIutarch's  Lives.     From  dough's  Traoslatioa. 

Goldsmith's  Vicar  of  Wakefield. 

Hhle's  Arabian  Nights. 


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